Inuvik (Nov 24/06) - Members of the Inuvik drummers and dancers are sharing their art weekly with students at Sir Alexander Mackenzie school.

Scott Kasook is one of five members of the Inuvik troupe who visits the school every week.

"Some of the students are being prepared for the upcoming Christmas concert," said Kasook. "The rest of them are learning the moves and songs."

The program began at the beginning of the school year, and is open to students in all grades, from kindergarten to grade 6.

Lillian Elias is one of the new members to the teaching group. She joined the program a month after it started in the school.

"I've been helping for the past three weeks," said Elias.

Elias, who has more than a decade of experience teaching the Inuvialuit language in the high school, knows how to work with students.

"Even though I retired three years ago, I can still relate to them," she said.

Dancing to the traditional songs is also nothing new for Elias, who was raised with the music in her home.

"I remember watching my parents play these songs and dance to them," she said.

Now that the program is in full swing, Elias said it will be a good tool to close the gap between the younger generations and the traditional way of life.

"I know that this is a way to keep our cultures alive," said Elias.

"It is important to know who you are and where you come from."

The group has also been joined by people from the community who know the songs and want to hear them sung by the voices of the youth.

"Remember to make noise when you dance," said Kasook to a group of younger students.

"Always use your best voice to sing the songs."