TH'OWXIYA The Hungry Feast Dish

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 feast dish of tempting, 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, two Spa:th and Sasq’ets, 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—which integrates masks, song, and dance—is a tale of understanding boundaries, being responsible for one’s actions, forgiving mistakes and finding the courage to stand up for what’s right.

This show is considered “Theatre for Young Audiences”. Ages 4 to 104.

Running Time: 1 hour (no intermission)

Ticket prices: General Public $15 / Students & Seniors  $10 / High school and children $5

10% discount for groups of 10 or more people. Contact the box office in person or by phone, 519-888-4908 for the group rate.

Venue: Theatre of the Arts, Modern Languages