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Haida film receives $20,000 grant

Christian White is planning to create a 26-minute film called Making Haida History, which will feature Haida artisans who worked on his long house and carving shed in Old Massett.
His Tluu Xaada Naay Society in Old Massett has just received funding from the 2010 Legacies Now program for this Haida arts and culture initiative.
Mr. White hopes to play the film, which will also feature the natural beauty of the islands and promote eco- and cultural tourism, during the tourist season at his longhouse.
"It will be used as a preview before live performances," he said. These performances, which are set to start this summer, will feature Haida art, dance, song, visual arts and storytelling.
The film won't be ready until 2007 and will be made professionally, he says. He'd like to capture the islands in all moods. "Some days are howling and some are just silent," he says.
The $20,000 award from Legacies Now won't cover all the costs, so he is still looking for matching funding.
Tluu Xaada Naay Society is a non-profit organization in Old Massett that encourages the development of the Haida arts and culture in visual, written, vocal, dance, traditional and modern forms.