In Calgary, both police and protesters are taking credit for the lack of any serious violence so far during the G-8 summit in Kananaskis.

Police say they've learned from past confrontations with demonstrators, while protest groups say they want to shift the focus back onto the issues and not the violence.

In a peaceful change from violent demonstrations of the past, several hundred people gathered at a Calgary theatre Wednesday night to sing and chant their anti-globalization message.

Barbara Byers, executive vice-president of the Canadian Labour Congress, spoke at the protest. She told demonstrators that it was their decision to forgo violence in order to promote their cause.

"They want to stay focused on the message of the G-8, what's wrong with NEPAD, and stay focused on the agenda of corporate rule," said Byers.

Police and RCMP in Calgary say they're making an effort to avoid clashes with protesters.

Instead of public appearances by the riot squad, officials are relying heavily on less intimidating officers on mountain bikes.

But crowds demonstrating at this year's G-8 are also smaller than in the past. Police say that makes it easier to keep an eye on anyone trying to incite violence and they have only arrested a handful of people.