Step into The Paza Experience, a dynamic performance act that celebrates the rich heritage of Native American culture. Derived from the Lakota word for "Tree of Life," Paza symbolizes our connection to the Earth, to ourselves, and to all living beings. 

Featuring the incredible talents of Delwin Fiddler Jr., a champion Lakota grass and hoop dancer and skilled flute player from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, alongside Samora Free, an indigenous singer, multi-instrumentalist, and soundscape artist from New York City, The Paza Experience brings together diverse artistic expressions that resonate with audiences of all ages.

​

The Paza Experience will lead participants in a workshop to create and personalize their very own dreamcatcher, speaking to the cultural significance of the sacred talisman for the Lakota people. All materials and supplies will be provided. 

Led by Champion dancer Delwin Fiddler, the Native Dance Workshop takes participants on a journey through the vibrant world of Native dance as he and Samora showcase traditional dances, sharing their significance and cultural context.

The Paza Experience is more than just a performance group; it is a heartfelt journey of education and healing. Through their art, Delwin and Samora aim to promote peace and harmony within communities, inviting everyone to connect with the past, embrace the present, and envision a harmonious future. Join us in this transformative cultural celebration that honors diversity, storytelling, and the spirit of togetherness.

​

Delwin Fiddler, Jr. is an enrolled tribal member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Sans Arc band. He is a Champion Grass and Hoop dancer, a world renowned Native American flutist, and an award-winning filmmaker.  Delwin’s Lakota name is Hehakapa Mahto (Elk Bear).  He is a third generation grandson of the Elk Head Red Hair (Hehakapa Pahinsa) who was the historical Keeper of the White Buffalo Calf Pipe (head chief of the Sioux nation).  Delwin has performed for several American Presidents as well as the Royal Family in England. His traditional Grass Dance is featured at the Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.  He recently premiered his award-winning PBS documentary called Without Arrows about his experience of living on and off the reservation in South Dakota. In addition to sharing his culture, Hehakapa Mahto's work involves a commitment to protecting and defending Mother Earth. He created his non-profit PAZA, Tree of Life to preserve his native heritage and keep the traditions of his people strong for future generations.

​

Samora Free (Dr. Samora) is an indigenous singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist and soundscape artist who has performed for international audiences since early childhood. She has been working alongside Delwin Fiddler as a performer, educator, and Cultural Engagement Director for PAZA, Tree of Life since 2021. Using her classically-trained voice and a variety of musical instruments, she weaves vibrational healing with indigenous wisdom into a wave of musical alchemy.  Dr. Samora was born and raised in New York City and comes from a multicultural and multifaith background. She is currently the Director of The Interfaith Temple and the Associate Director of The New Seminary for Interfaith Studies, founded in 1979 and carries the message that We are all one regardless of our beliefs and backgrounds. Dr. Samora is an adopted member of the Lakota tribe and her Lakota name is Owanzila Win (Woman who brings Unity & Harmony).  Driven by a deep sense of justice and human rights, Dr. Samora uses her artistic platform to educate and support the advancement of marginalized communities through cultural exchange and interfaith dialogue.

​

This engagement of The Paza Experience is made possible in part through the Mid Atlantic Tours program of Mid Atlantic Arts with support from the National Endowment for the Arts.​​​​​

​​

Pro-Art partners with a variety of venues, for accessibility inquiries or general questions, call (276) 376-4520 or email contact@proartva.org. For weather related updates, patrons are encouraged to check proartva.org for real-time information.

​

Pro-Art is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as the C. Bascom Slemp Foundation, The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, and Mountain Empire Community College.