This multidisciplinary arts festival supports and celebrates the work of women and non-binary artists. Running in conjunction with International Women’s Day (March 8), the SkirtsAfire Festival often features song, dance, spoken word, theatre, readings, magic, comedy, film, yoga, cabaret, and more that reflect the diversity of the thriving arts community in Alberta.
This year’s lineup includes both online and outdoor options in a reimagined festival format. You can stroll through Old Strathcona for a range of festival programming, as well as enjoy various performances from the comfort of home.
Outdoor Programming
– The Visual Art Exhibit is on display in the windows of the old Army & Navy building (10411-82 Ave.) until March 31 (extended from March 14!). The focus of this exhibition is on the immediate need of connection, and it invites audiences to connect to three artists’ experiences. An audio tour from Visual Art Curator Stephanie Florence is available.
– The Key of Me singer-songwriter series includes pop-up concerts performed from the storefront window of the old Army and Navy building on Whyte Avenue (10411-82 Ave.). Playing March 4-7 and 11-14.
– The annual Skirt Design Competition takes on a twist this year, including a collaboration with various businesses in Old Strathcona. Six skirt designs constructed specifically for the festival will be on display in shop windows like C’est Sera and The Paint Spot. Vote on your favourite!
Online Programming
– Body of Words is a collaboration between SkirtsAfire and Ballet Edmonton. It brings together poetry, dance, and music, and is available online till March 14.
– Covid Collections: A Short Film plays online till March 31. It’s “a tribute to the people we encounter daily behind their masks and in their own spaces.”
– The world premiere of Makings Of A Voice is available till March 20. This feature play includes stirring music and Dana’s impactful story.
SkirtsAfire Festival | March 4-14
