Alaska Native storyteller working to keep culture alive

PALMER — Reginald Kalkins is an Alaska Native storyteller and comedian who’s a recurring participant at The Gathering Place, a market and event area within the within the Alaska State Fair that’s dedicated to Alaska Native culture with all the different tribes represented.

Kalkins tells stories to the audience between shows sharing traditional stores from various Alaska Native cultures that were passed down from generation to generation with his own brand of humor sprinkled in each tale.

“It’s always fun to tell the old stories,” Kalkins said.

Kalkins told several stories from Alaska Native culture Monday, Aug. 23, including creation myths, and a tale of how the raven outsmarted the killer whale. He said some of the stories are just for fun while many others have morals or lessons to be learned.

“I want to stick with it,” Kalkins said.

Kalkins also sells his original artwork and handmade drums at The Gathering Place. He said all the various crafters are passionate about what they do and their work brings Alaska Native culture on full display for everyone to see and learn about.

“I love it here,” Kalkins said. “I think this is well needed because they’re perpetuating their culture.”

Kalkins said that he learned traditional drum making when he was a child. He said it’s one of many important skills that need to be passed on to the next generation.

“That’s why I’m willing to teach anybody, keeping the culture going and keeping them drumming,” Kalkins said.

Kalkins said that events like the Ninja Warrior Camp hosted by Nick Hanson, the NYO demonstrations, and the blanket toss draw huge crowds to The Gathering Place.

“People learn culture while enjoying it, which is very important,” Kalkins said. “We’re always looking for more Native acts here. This is the place to come.”

For more information about the 2022 Alaska State Fair, visit alaskastatefair.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com