“Alaska Storytellers: Bringing Sitka’s Stories to Life” is a 30-minute multimedia experience that uses Russian folk, contemporary and swing dancing to tell the story of Sitka from the 18th century through 1945.
A storyteller, video and dancers relate the town’s cultural history. Dances in different styles are used to illustrate major events in Sitka’s history. The story starts in ancient history and ends in 1945, covering events such as battles, the transfer of Russian claims of Alaska to the United States, and Alaska’s passage of a civil rights law.
Most shows are at Harrigan Centennial Hall, 330 Harbor Dr. On most Wednesdays performances are at 207 Smith St. Check before you go, at alaskastorytellers.com. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door. Kids under 10 are free.
In the program, the story starts in the 18th century, when Russians first came to Alaska, which is illustrated in the show by Russian folk dancing.
Alaska Storytellers was founded in 2022 by Cyndy Gibson and Kris Wilcox, with a goal of engaging Sitkans and visitors in learning Alaska history. This year, the company became a nonprofit to further this goal.
Gibson and Wilcox wrote the 30-minute program, weaving together dance, storytelling and video to bring Sitka’s history to life.
Both founders say they’re captivated by Alaska’s enriching stories that weave together “cultures, larger-than-life characters and captivating tales comprising Alaska’s historical tapestry.”
The troupe of about 10 dancers, who are paid, are recruited from the local talent pool and from across the U.S. Many of them dance professionally throughout the year in other cities.
