
Ensemble Program
Ensemble Program
What is the Aboriginal Ensemble Program?
The Aboriginal Ensemble Program (est. 2002) is a project and apprenticeship-based training program which is rooted in Aboriginal traditions. It is exciting collaborative work aimed at developing your artistic contemporary voice and practice while exploring Aboriginal traditions and traditional art forms.
The ensemble is for Aboriginal artists committed to a career in their practice. Artists of different disciplines come together in the ensemble to create a collaborative, supportive and innovative environment. In doing so, they participate in Creations Projects, Partnership Projects, Professional Performance Projects and Initiation Projects.
CORE VALUES
• To give voice to the experiences and aspirations of Aboriginal people
• To make contemporary and traditional Aboriginal art practices accessible
• To celebrate the spirituality, diversity and uniqueness of Aboriginal cultures
• To strive for a high level of artistic quality
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Traditional art forms taught by instructors from different nations
- Behind the scenes experience in production to develop skills in work creation
- Opportunities to attend the The Talking Stick Festival Industry series
- Apprenticeship in arts administration, marketing and project management
Click Here to See the Aboriginal Ensemble Program
Click Here to Apply for the Aboriginal Ensemble Program
GRADUATE SUCCESS
Previous Ensemble members work coast to coast and have gone on to be nationally recognized. Many have formed companies of their own, including: Savage Society, Raven Theatre, Raven Spirit Dance and many more.
They have worked with organizations such as Weesagachuk Festival, Gwaanduk Theatre, and Urban Ink to name a few. They appear in films, television and commercials, create independent films and tour nationally and internationally. They are Artistic Directors, award winning musicians and vocalists and cutting edge choreographers.
TESTIMONIAL

“Full Circle’s ensemble program is like no other. It truly supports artists no matter where they are in their career to be fully present and explore their artistry.Each member is able to bring their culture and art to the forefront while feeling supported. This program gave me a solid foundation to be the artist I am today.” — NYLA CARPENTIER
NYLA’S CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- Writing and acting my first one act play “21st Century Tricksters” Vancouver Fringe Festival
- Teaching the successful Powwow Bootcamp at the Dance Centre since 2010 through Raven Spirit Dance, Vancouver BC
- TYA tour “Raven Meets the Monkey King” 2013–2016, Axis Theatre