Land, Language & Songs

Land, Language & Songs invites audiences on a unique afternoon of music, storytelling, and discovery as downtown Victoria becomes a living performance space.

Part of Pacific Opera Victoria’s Found in Translation initiative, which celebrates Indigenous languages alongside those brought to Canada by newcomers, this free walking event explores how language, music, and place connect us to one another and to the land we share.

Beginning at Songhees Point, audiences are invited to follow a guided walking route linking four Spindle Whorl public art installations. With Opening and Closing gatherings by Songhees Knowledge Keeper Yuxwelupton Qwal’ qaxala (Bradley Dick), the journey features Pacific Opera Victoria artists performing works in Cree, Anishinaabe, Nuu-chah-nulth, Dakota, Toisan, Hindi, Japanese, and more, alongside stories and songs that celebrate the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of our community.

The afternoon concludes at Beacon Hill Park, where artists and audiences gather for a shared musical finale.

Participation is free, and guests are welcome to experience the full walking route or join at any of the scheduled stops.

Schedule
This leisurely walking route includes approximately 15–20 minutes between each performance location.

12:30-1:00 p.m. – Opening Gathering
Songhees Point

Welcome with Yuxwelupton Qwal’ qaxala (Bradley Dick) and performances by Pacific Opera Victoria artists. We recommend bringing chairs or blankets as the Opening Gathering will at least be 30 minutes long.

1:30 p.m.
Victoria City Hall

Short musical performance.

2:05 p.m.
Inner Harbour

Short musical performance.

2:30 p.m.
Royal BC Museum

Short musical performance.

3:30 p.m. – Closing Gathering
Beacon Hill Park Lookout

Closing songs with Yuxwelupton Qwal’ qaxala (Bradley Dick) and Pacific Opera Victoria artists. e recommend bringing chairs or blankets as the Closing Gathering will at least be 30 minutes long.