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Powwow People (15*)

Open City Documentary Festival

,Cinemas
A young girl holds hands with an elder, in traditional Indigenous North American dress

Artist and filmmaker Sky Hopinka’s second feature film immerses us in a Native American powwow, a gathering where Indigenous people celebrate their culture through dance, song, and ceremony. 

Made over the course of several days at Seattle’s Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, Hopinka invited dancers, drummers, and community members from across the powwow circuit to participate not only in the event, but also in the making of the film itself. 

Following participants as they arrive, prepare, and perform, Hopinka’s vérité-style camera observes the rhythms and textures of the powwow as it unfolds. Voice-over testimony intertwines with the presence of Master of Ceremonies Ruben Littlehead, whose guidance structures the flow of the day.

Culminating with an extraordinary 30-minute single take of a Northern Traditional dance special, Powwow People offers a vivid, immersive portrait of indigenous culture, traditions and community.

Tagged with: Cinema Open City Documentary Festival

Followed by a Q&A with Sky Hopinka.

Please note that this event has been locally classified and we suggest it is suitable for those aged 15+.

Film information
  • Release year   2025
  • Country of origin   USA
  • Director   Sky Hopinka
  • Runtime   1hr 28mins

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Cinemas

Location
Barbican Cinema 1 is located within the main Barbican building on Level -2. Head to Level G and walk towards the Lakeside Terrace where you’ll find stairs and lifts to take you down to the venue floor.   

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
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