Dylan Jennings dancing

Talk: Powwow 101

The Spurlock Museum hosts the free talk Powwow 101 by Dylan Jennings (Bad River Band, Lake Superior Ojibwe). Dylan is a nationally known Traditional dancer and singer, who has served as emcee, arena director and head judge at powwows across the country. Join us as Dylan discusses powwow culture; including the variety of dance and singing styles along with their meaning and significance, and the regalia created and worn by dancers. This presentation will provide a deeper understanding of the intricacies of powwow culture across Indian Country. Come and explore the history, the contemporary practices and share a few special songs and dances with the crowd, while exploring the vibrant world of powwow in this exciting and interactive presentation.

This talk is part of the Spurlock Museum’s 17th annual Winter Tales celebration honoring the cultures of Indigenous Americans and the wisdom and practices they share with others. Also included in this year’s events are an educator workshop, a family concert of storytelling and traditional teachings, and a talk on the environmental work being done by many tribal communities. Visit the Events page for dates and times. All events are free.

Bizhikiins is the name that was given to Dylan Jennings. He is a Bad River Tribal member and a UW Madison Alumni. In addition, Mr. Jennings is an elected Tribal Council Member for the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe. As an elected official, Mr. Jennings works diligently to provide opportunities for the 8,000 tribal members he serves. He serves as the appointed Council Liaison for the JOM Education Committee and is also a member of the Bad River Drug Task Force. He is a staunch advocate for education, language preservation and environmental protection.

Dylan is an avid participant in local ceremonies and customs and is a lifelong Ojibwe language learner.

He also is a champion singer and a traditional dancer on the pow-wow circuit, having performed all over the world and facilitated large groups in learning to pow-wow dance for health. He is also a traditional drum maker and artist. 

Dylan began storytelling at a young age and is passionate about sharing the Indigenous way of life. “Storytelling and the lessons learned from our traditional stories are timeless pieces of knowledge that can help us laugh, heal, and grow into the wise people that our communities need.”—Dylan Bizhikiins Jennings 

Dylan Jennings dancing

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Contact

For further information on this event, contact Beth Watkins at or (217) 265-5485

All participants are welcome. To request disability-related accommodations for this event, please contact Brian Cudiamat at or (217) 244-5586.