Iqaluit (Oct 20/04) - When Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) put out a call for singers, dancers and artists to take part in a cultural exchange with Boston, the Kivalliq region responded the loudest, said Kowesa Etitiq at NTI.

Throatsinging in particular seems to be making a major comeback, said Etitiq, who is co-ordinating the performers.

"Throatsinging was lagging in the last six or seven years," said Etitiq. "It has taken off again."

Rankin Inlet square dancers, drum dancers and throatsingers are among the strongest of the 14 groups NTI is now trying to choose from to make the cultural exchange.

All the artwork and performing artists will be part of the Peabody-Essex Museum's Inuit cultural event orchestrated at the request of former Minister of Northern Affairs Canada Ron Irwin.

Irwin, who is now the Consul General for New England, thought there was potential for trade between Nunavut and New England, said Etitiq.

"Everything from our arts and crafts to our char," said Etitiq.

But it's the music of the Arctic people really want to hear.

"We even got an application from Susan Aglukark which is awesome," said Etitiq.

Aglukark hails from Arviat, and makes her home in Toronto since she became a popular music star in Canada.

But Etitiq said just because Aglukark is famous does not mean she automatically makes the final cut.

The final decision on about who will be on the two-part tour will be made this week in Iqaluit, explained Etitiq.

The finalists will be divided into two groups, one of which will go down Dec. 6 for the opening of the event and another on Dec. 21 for the closing ceremonies.

Proud of Kivalliq

Justin Merritt, deputy mayor of Rankin Inlet, is proud that the Kivalliq got the most applications to NTI.

"We do have talented singers here," said Merritt. "It's pretty important they enjoy it. That's the main thing."

Kivalliq region performers get to show off their talent a lot, said Merritt, which may explain why they applied for the exchange in such numbers.

"They aren't shy about their singing or dancing," said Merritt. "Many people in the Kivalliq have gotten to travel already and perform."

Aglukark has had an impact, too, Merritt said.

"When you see someone of your own that can perform, it's not out of sight they can, too."