The MacCulloch Dancers represented Canada in Parade Brunssum 2004 which took place from July 16 th to 22 nd 2004.. The troupe enjoyed a festive week full of dancing, cultural celebration and welcoming hospitality. Some 800 participants from all parts of the world performed for 50.000 plus spectators. The countries in the parade included Argentina, Canada, Hungary, Libya, New Zealand, Paaseiland, Russia, Spain, Brazil, Costa Rica, Ireland, Morocco, Ukraine, Poland, Serbia and Montenegro, Togo, Bulgaria, Georgia, India, Netherlands, Oezbekistan, Romania and Senegal.

The main performances were performed in an extra large tent. Of all the festival stages we have performed on, this ranks as one of the best. Hundreds of spectators filled the tent each evening. The sounds of multicultural music and dance resounded throughout the tent nightly.

The performance tent, shopping and festival cafeteria were all within waking distance, making it possible for us to enjoy Brunsumm and the festival to the fullest.

Our dancers entertained us with their interesting purchases, including lime green shoes, purses and jackets. Favourite stops for everyone were the ice cream and desert parlours. The ice cream, whipped creams and delicious toppings were always piled high and deliciously scrumptious.

The procession is one of the highlights of the Brunsumm Parade. On Sunday July 18, the participating groups danced, sang and played music throughout the streets of Brunsumm in a colourful and energized parade . At one point our piper, Jim Forbes, played amazing Grace. The crowd joined in singing with pride and graciousness. The crowd was jubilant. The crowds filled the streets, cheering “Canada! Canada!” as our troupe performed, greeted onlookers and handed out Canadian souvenirs. The smiles on our dancers faces were indeed contagious.

Two of our Dancers Anais Mercier and Stephanie Kaleta performed in a production which included a pair of dancers from each of the participating countries. The rehearsed very early each morning. The final performance brought the audience to their feet. Good job! Anais and Stephanie. You made us proud.

Our dear guides Mike and Monique became very special friends. We enjoyed their endearing personalities and will always remember the fun times we had with them. They joined in on all of our activities and quickly became “one of the gang”

The Brunsumm Parade Festival is one of the largest in Europe. It was truly exciting to be involved in such a large celebration of culture, dance, music and friendship.