Written by: Joseph A. Dandurand
Directed by: Andy Houston
When you take something from the earth you must always give something back.
From the Kwantlen First Nation village of Squa’lets comes the tale of Th’owxiya, an old and powerful spirit that inhabits a tempting feast dish, full of beautiful foods from around the world. But even surrounded by this delicious food, Th’owxiya herself craves only the taste of children. When she catches a hungry mouse named Kw’at’el stealing a piece of cheese from her dish, she threatens to devour Kw’at’el’s whole family, unless he can bring Th’owxiya two child spirits. Ignorant but desperate, Kw’at’el sets out on an epic journey to fulfill the spirit’s demands. With the help of Sqeweqs (a raven), two Spa:th (two bears) and Sasq’ets (a sasquatch), Kw’at’el endeavours to find gifts that would appease Th’owxiya and save his family.
Like “Hansel and Gretel” and the northwest First Nations stories about the Wild Woman of the Woods, TH’OWXIYA is a tale of understanding boundaries, taking responsibility for one’s actions, forgiving mistakes and finding the courage to stand up for what’s right. The play integrates masks, song, and dance and features a diverse cast of characters of woodland creatures and spirits.
Directed by faculty member Andy Houston, designed by Jay Havens and Paul Cegys (set and digital scenography), Nadine Grant (costumes), Alia Stephen (lighting), and Lyon Smith (sound), this production will immerse the audience in a forest realm and spirit world and challenges them to explore their relationship to play and nature.
While this show is written for the K – 8 age group, it is an experience for people of all ages. Running time is 58 minutes.