Iqaluit arts fest spans big top to hip hop

For its fourth edition, Iqaluit's Alianait Arts Festival is showcasing a range of arts and cultural events — from throat-singers to circus performers — in the Nunavut capital.

A major feature for this year's edition is a large, purple-and-yellow-striped circus tent playing host to a series of events in the centre of Iqaluit, including Saturday's opening celebrations.

The lineup featured Southern Siberia and Mongolian folk singers Namgar, Nunavut fiddler Colin Adjun and accordionist Simeonie Keenainak, and circus acts from Igloolik, Quebec and Mexico.

"It's very cold and cool, but it's great," Mexican performer Leonardi Costantini told CBC News.

"It's amazing to be 24 hours [in daylight], so I'm enjoying it a lot."

The 10-day event, which continues through July 1, features events both free and ticketed.

Along with activities to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Quebec City and a Canada Day breakfast, concert and parade, the festival offerings include:

• Storytelling performances.
• Visual arts and fine craft exhibits.
• Traditional Inuit string games.
• Stage shows.
• Hip hop dance showcases and workshops.

"Through music and the arts, we're really bringing everyone together and building some really positive energy and culture," said Alianait festival director Heather Daley.