WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 AT 19:00 HOURS
OPENING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION

The Official Opening Ceremony will take place at the Orpheum Theater and will be followed by a Reception.

The opening ceremony will include the following exciting program giving participants the opportunity to experience the unique culture of Western Canada

Northern Shadow Dancers
One of the most dynamic First Nation dance groups in western Canada. This group of dancers challenges the traditional native dancing format and brings exciting legends, story-telling, costumes and choreography into their act.

Vancouver Police Pipe Band
Attired in traditional Scottish regalia, the Vancouver Police Pipe Band creates a strong and memorable impression as they perform their emotional and exciting pipe music. This band has a worldwide reputation for excellence and is immaculately turned out.

Chief Maurice Nahanee
Leader of the Squamish Nation. Traditional protocol requires that a First Nation Chief gives the gift of his blessing to the opening of Congresses and presents a "Talking Stick", meaning of theright to speak, by a First Nations Chief.