Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Arviat (Nov 13/02) - Northern styles will be hitting the fashion runway in style this coming week in Arviat.

The fashion show is a joint effort of Qitiqliq high school and the Kiluk Sewing Centre.

Arviat fashion lovers will be thrilled on Nov. 21 when Qitiqliq High students model an exciting mix of local creations and stunning Baffin originals like this full-length coat modelled at a Rankin Inlet show by Sharron Sateana. - Darrell Greer/NNSL photo

The show is scheduled for the high school gym on Nov. 21, beginning at 7 p.m.

High school music teacher Mary Piercey says the idea came about during the 2001 Rural Forum held in Brandon, Man.

Piercey had four Arviat students take part in a fashion show at the event.

She says local craftsperson Jackie King approached her about producing a local fashion show during the Rural Forum.

"We'll be showcasing some of the wonderful Iqaluit styles at the show, but we'll also be featuring the works of a number of local people, as well," says Piercey.

The Arviat Imngitingit (singers) will be travelling to Newfoundland next June to participate in the International Music Festival.

Piercey says the group will be performing traditional Ajaja songs at the fashion show, along with drum dancing, throat singing and contemporary, upbeat Inuktitut songs.

"The students will be modelling the fashions as they perform, so that's a unique approach for the show."

The 19 students taking part are in Grades 7 through 12 and range in age from 13 to 18 years.

The choir has been receiving special traditional instruction once a week from elders in preparation for the fashion show.

The show's $2 entrance fee will help finance the students' trip and a donation box will be set up during the performance.

Canteen services will also be available at the show.

Piercey says the choir has a good mix of students.

She says although there are only five boys in the actual choir, many more help out in other areas.

"We've got a number of boys involved in the technical side of the show doing sound, lights and videotaping.

"Our rehearsals are being videotaped so we can review them to see what we can improve upon.

"That's important because there's a lot of dancing involved with the show along with the actual singing."