Native Trails Celebrates 15th Anniversary Of Cultural Traditions In Scottsdale

Free Festivals at Civic Center Mall

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Dec 28, 2016, 01:30 ET

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Dec. 28, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Experience the rich and varied cultures of Native American nations through storytelling, song and dance during the 15^th anniversary of Native Trails, presented by the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation and produced by the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. This milestone year includes events designed to establish unity through finding commonalities and connecting people among different cultures.

Experience the rich and varied cultures of Native American nations through storytelling, song and dance during the 15th anniversary of Native Trails.

When: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. most Thursdays and Saturdays from Jan. 12 to March 30, 2017
Where: Scottsdale Civic Center park, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251
How much: Free

"The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation again is honored to serve as the title sponsor of Native Trails," said the Nation's President Bernadine Burnette. "Many visitors to the Valley are keenly interested in learning about Arizona's Indian tribes, and especially about our histories and cultures. Native Trails' entertaining programs open a window into the rich heritage of Arizona's 22 tribes."

Native Trails will include two special unity performances Feb. 16 and 18. Performers representing other cultures will join the Native Trails cast on these dates, and powerful African and Japanese drumming will be incorporated into the performances.

"Although we may come from different cultural backgrounds, as part of the same human family, we hold many common values," said Derrick Suwaima Davis, artistic director of Native Trails. "We share in the concepts of loving our families, establishing balance in our lives and encouraging success for all. There is more that unifies us than divides us. However, in times of difficulty, we may lose sight of this truth."

Suwaima said the 15^th anniversary season of Native Trails will renew old friendships and celebrate appreciation for people of all backgrounds. His wish is for people to honor their cultural differences while remaining united in building a healthy future for the generations that will follow.

WHAT TO EXPECT: A SENSORY JOURNEY

SEE: Suwaima thrills audiences with his mesmerizing hoop dances. Suwaima's dance utilizes only five hoops, which are formed into a variety of nature-inspired shapes, such as the eagle, butterfly and the Earth. And the visuals aren't limited to dance, as Suwaima and his fellow performers liven the atmosphere by wearing colorful regalia that represents their respective tribes.
HEAR: Let the rhythm move you. Guests are encouraged to join in the fun with the grand finale Round Dance. Cast members join hands with the audience to form a circle, which represents the equality of all people in the circle.
TOUCH: Artisans will be showing crafts including jewelry, woven baskets, pottery, instruments and paintings.
TASTE AND SMELL: The inviting aroma of fry bread will lead audience members to a food truck where they can satisfy their hunger.

For more information, including a full list of performance dates, visit www.ScottsdaleNativeTrails.com.

About the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
The Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, located just east of Scottsdale, is a 950-member Native America tribe that calls central Arizona's upper Sonoran Desert home. The FMYN is committed to the expansion of tribal services and enterprises to meet the changing needs of its members, while preserving their traditional values. The Nation owns and operates a number of successful businesses including the We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club and Fort McDowell Adventures.

SOURCE Experience Scottsdale