Performers

Blending musical versatility, instrumental prowess, beautiful vocal harmonies, and a premier rhythm section, Easy Star All-Stars have established themselves as one of the top international reggae acts on the scene for over two decades. During this time, they’ve toured in over 30 countries on 6 continents bringing together fans of reggae, classic rock, dub, and indie rock into one big family.

With an unmistakable voice like “gravel on silk”, and a colourful landscape of tightly crafted lyrics, driving rhythms and uplifting melodies, Canadian singer-songwriter AHI (pronounced “eye”) is creating folk music the whole world can sing to.
From charting on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon, to delivering captivating performances on CBS & NPR Tiny Desk and touring internationally with Mandy Moore, Lauren Daigle and Milow, AHI has earned over 100 Million streams worldwide, propelling him to the forefront of today’s Folk/Roots music scene.

Josh Bogert crafts brutally honest, emotionally charged pop/rock anthems that feel like the soundtrack to your favorite coming-of-age movie. With soaring hooks, distorted guitars, and confessional lyrics, his music walks the line between heartbreak and adrenaline—made for those moments when you’re overthinking at midnight or screaming lyrics in a crowded room.

A self-produced artist and multi-instrumentalist, Josh has already carved out an impressive path. He’s performed across Canada and the U.S., gracing major stages like Toronto’s Budweiser Stage, Halifax’s Scotiabank Centre, and Edmonton’s Commonwealth Stadium.

Eagle Ex Machina is an alternative rock band founded by multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Matt Cook-Contois to combine his love of rock music with his traditional fiddle upbringing. Based in Vancouver, Eagle Ex Machina’s sonic signature features a heavy approach, instrumental proficiency, and songwriting variety.

Created in 2020, Eagle Ex Machina was formed to capture the musical identity Matt developed throughout his career. The band’s soundscape pays homage to and draws on influences such as Foo Fighters and City and Colour, while incorporating a modern approach to Canadian fiddling.

Zelene Rojo is a Ukrainian-Argentinian musical project created in 2022 by the duo Kateryna Melnyk and Bruno Bosio. Their sound draws inspiration from musical motifs from North Africa, Southern Europe, and the Arabian Peninsula. By connecting elements of traditional and well-known songs, the duo aims to recreate their personal musical journey around the world.

Caitlin creates music that fosters self-acceptance, personal growth, and liberation. Through soulful storytelling and a deep connection with her audience, she brings a welcoming energy to her performances. Acclaimed by media outlets such as Exclaim! Magazine, her fresh yet timeless essence engages listeners of all ages.

Elevating the rhythm of Vancouver’s dance scene, Higher Ground Dance Company stands as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural diversity. Nestled in the heart of Canada’s West Coast, our founder Natasha Gorrie leads a dynamic ensemble of street dancers, igniting stages with electrifying performances.

Kocassale Dioubate, from the Mandingo (or Malinke) tribe of Guinea, West Africa, is a descendant of his tribe’s djeliba (also known as griots)—traditional storytellers, entertainers, musicians, praise singers, counselors, and mediators. Griots are the keepers of oral history and tradition, known for their deep connections to spiritual, social, and political life.

Koca was born into this rich lineage of artistry and cultural knowledge, and has been playing music, creating songs, and dancing since early childhood—ever since he was old enough to walk.

Merlin is a 502-year-old wizard who loves performing magic—but sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned. Accompanied by “Smog,” a wise-cracking baby dragon who can do a little magic too, Merlin and his sidekick never fail to amaze and amuse kids of all ages (yes, adults love it too!). Merlin is actually Bruce Hunt, a comedy magician born and raised in East Vancouver, who has called Surrey home for many years. 

Ash Bubbles is a captivating bubble performer who transforms the art of bubble manipulation into enchanting visual experiences. With a passion for spreading joy, she creates mesmerizing displays of giant bubbles and intricate sculptures that delight audiences of all ages.

Coast to Coast delivers a powerful and authentic ’80s rock concert experience — a must-see for fans of high-energy live shows. Hailing from Surrey, Coast to Coast has quickly become one of Canada’s top tribute bands, gaining fans around the world through their performance videos on YouTube. 

John Welsh & Los Valientes deliver an irresistible blend of Latin and folk rhythms that get crowds dancing and spirits soaring. Known for their high-energy shows and multicultural sound, the band brings together infectious melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a global message of unity and joy.

Matt Cook-Contois is a singer and multi-instrumentalist from Misipawistik Cree Nation in northern Manitoba. He began his music career as a traditional fiddle player, competing in contests across Western Canada, before transitioning to playing in indie bands and cover bands in Vancouver.

As a singer, fiddle player, and guitarist, Matt performs in a variety of projects, but his main focus is his alternative rock band, Eagle Ex Machina.

Watch as cultural pavilion organizers march from the ML Emporio Celebration Stage to the Concord Pacific World Music Stage together.

Pasión Venezuela Dancing Group was created in March 2024 by a group of Venezuelans who are deeply passionate and proud of their culture and traditional dances.

The group’s main purpose is to showcase the rich variety of Venezuelan dance styles and rhythms through performances at cultural festivals and special events.

Rangla Punjab Arts Academy is a folk arts institute established in 2016 and based in Surrey, British Columbia. We are a community-based organization committed to serving our community through diverse projects. We are also deeply dedicated to promoting our Punjabi Virsa, Maa-Boli, and culture.