A Long Plain First Nation powwow dancer is preparing for another summer performance at the Calgary Stampede after being invited back to perform on the event’s grand stage.
Kevin Francis, who has been powwow dancing since 2007, says the invitation marks another milestone in a journey that has taken him across North America and earned him recognition within the powwow community.
Powwow dancing has taken Francis to major events, including the Gathering of Nations in Albuquerque, N.M., which is widely regarded as the world’s largest powwow.
Francis specializes in the Prairie Chicken Dance, a style that originates from Siksika Nation in southern Alberta.
Two years ago, he competed at the World Chicken Dance Championships.
“Prairie Chicken Dancers from all over come from across the United States and Canada,” says Francis.
A return to Calgary
Francis first performed on the Calgary Stampede’s grand stage two years ago after receiving an invitation from organizers.
The opportunity came during a difficult period in his life following the loss of his sister.
“It was a unique experience, but something was missing at the time. I just lost my sister,” adds Francis.
Known on the powwow trail as the “Mad Hatter,” Kevin Francis of Long Plain First Nation wears one of his trademark top hats alongside his Prairie Chicken Dance regalia. Francis has performed across North America and will return to the Calgary Stampede stage this summer. Photo submitted/Kevin Francis
He explains that he and his sister had planned to attend the event together before her passing.
“I was grateful to be there, but my heart, there was something missing because my late sister and I were planning to go there,” continues Francis.
Despite the loss, Francis completed the performance and said he felt supported by the memory of his sister.
“I know she was extremely proud of me as a younger brother,” remarks Francis.
This summer’s return to Calgary carries a different feeling.
“They had asked me in February to come go back there and perform again,” mentions Francis.
He says he is looking forward to the experience and plans to fully enjoy the opportunity.
The man behind the top hat
Francis has become known on the powwow trail for his distinctive top hats, which have become a signature part of his appearance.
He currently owns 16 different top hats, ranging from felt and silk models to antique pieces that are no longer in production.
“I just want it to be different and unique,” notes Francis.
The collection has helped earn him a nickname among fellow dancers and announcers.
“My nickname on the powwow trail is the Mad Hatter,” says Francis.
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The nickname developed naturally over time and has become widely associated with him.
His regalia has also been a personal creative project. While family members have helped with its construction, Francis has taken the lead on much of the design work.
“My aunties in the past have helped me make it, but I would say I did most of the feather work and decorating my top hat and stuff like that and designing it,” continues Francis.
Giving back through leadership
In addition to dancing, Francis has served as an arena director since 2017. Arena directors help guide the flow of a powwow and work closely with organizers, performers and drum groups throughout events.
He has directed numerous gatherings over the years, including community powwows and larger events.
“They had reached out to me this year as well. I’m very honoured to be part of community events like that,” remarks Francis, referring to his involvement with the Yellowquill School Powwow.
Francis says one of his goals was to eventually arena direct in his home community of Long Plain First Nation.
“It was always my goal to direct my home community powwow, I’ve achieved that, and I’m very honoured and proud,” mentions Francis.
Inspiring the next generation
While Francis never intended to become a role model, he says the responsibility has naturally come with his visibility in the powwow community.
“When I first started dancing, I didn’t set out to be a role model,” notes Francis.
He says some of the most rewarding moments come when young people recognize him from performances, social media or online videos.
“It never gets old when little boys wear top hats, and so they come up to me and shake my hand. They say, ‘I saw you on YouTube’ or ‘I saw you on social media,’ you know, that never gets old,” says Francis.
In recent years, children have also begun asking for his autograph, prompting him to carry pre-signed photographs that he can hand out at events.
He says he tries to leave a positive impression whenever he meets someone new.
“I always make sure that when I meet little boys or anybody, for the first time, I do my best to make it a very positive, memorable experience,” continues Francis.
As summer powwow season approaches, Francis and his partner are planning an ambitious schedule that includes attending 13 powwows, highlighted by his return to the Calgary Stampede stage.