Shambhala: Jewel of the West Coast

The Buddists say Shambhala is a mystical kingdom hidden somewhere beyond the snowpeaks of the Himalayas. I don’t know about that, but I will say that Shambhala Music Festival is the crown jewel of Canada’a West Coast music festival scene. It’s a rare event that rejuventates the soul, restoring our sense of our potential to be creative, caring, powerful and beautiful together. It’s essentially BC’s answer to Burning Man without the risk of burning down their most valuable natural resource.

Set deep in the heart of BC’s Kootenays, Shambhala is a huge multimedia musical experience in stark contrast to the beautiful green hills of the 500 acre Salmo River Ranch where it’s held. For five days and four nights from August 11-15th approximately 10,000 people celebrated music, diversity, creativity, and individuality as DJs, artists and live musicians from around the world performed on six high tech stages and dozens of smaller venues. Nestled in the lush trees along the Salmo river, attendees chose from a fashion show, indie film festival, helicopter rides, skateboard and dance competitions as well as dozens of art exhibits and workshops. There was no shortage of fascinating things to do, watch or participate in.

Two performances really stood out against a sea of talented MCs and live acts. The first was the San Franciso based Yard Dogs Road Show who literally stunned the audience with an ecclectic beach side performance of their jug band, vaudeville & burlesque sideshow act. Amazingly authentic and creative stuff, such as Tobias the Sword Swallower. Another incredibly fresh and vibrant performance was given by Nelson, BC’s own Wassabi Collective featuring Melissa Meretsky’s sexy cool vocals and amazing percussion (you have to hear this girl play the hand drums). Their groove jam style incorporates funk, reggae, folk and a healthy serving of global dub to create a captivating and very dancible set. An inspiring performance that left the audience wanting for more.

The whole Shambhala experience left me affected and buzzing and I was sad for it to end. Somehow I feel taller. My vision seems sharper. I feel more aware, yet slightly lost as the beauty of the world around seems somehow bittersweet and in dire need of repair. I’m already anticipating next year and invite you to check out the festival’s official website to see what you missed and make plans to dance with us at Shambhala 2006! Copyright 2005 Industrial Brand Creative