The Kikino Northern Lites is a Metis Traditional dance troupe. Formed in 1978 by Metis elders Georgina Thompson, Doris Bellerose, Delphine Erasmus & Phil Kootney. The name itself has its own significance. The word “Kikino” Cree Word meaning our home. & “Northern Lites” is an ol’ Metis Belief; when the Spirits of our loved ones pass on, they join our Ancestors to rejoice in a spiritual dance in the Northern Sky.

 

Since the beginning, the dance lead was Gerald White. Eventually turning manager and carrying the troupe into the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, along side his loving wife Denise White. The dance group travelled many miles, thrilling audiences with their energetic steps and upbeat dancing. Gerald made it his life’s work persevering our Metis Culture through music and dance, with being the front man of country band Northern Highways and running the dance troupe full time. With the passing of Gerald in Early 2006 the group and its teachings kind of slumber until the spring of 2023.

 

The groups legacy and teachings now initiated by Lead dancer Trevor White, Geralds youngest son. Trevor who has danced with the group from childhood up until his dads passing, got the inspiration to start-up the dance group again from the birth of his daughter in April 2023. The main motivation for the start up is to continue to preserve and strengthen our Metis culture through music and dance, for our future generations to carry on our beautiful Metis traditions.