Collingwood, ON [12 October 2023] – The Yonnhe’ón:we Indigenous Arts Series honours the life-giving spirit of story. Experience the first of the series on November 9th from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Simcoe Street Theatre, hosted by Collingwood Poet Laureate Jillian Morris. Be immersed in the power of Indigenous storytelling through poetry, film and contemporary dance.
The evening will begin with a series opening from Elder Jeff Monague. Jillian Morris will then provide a poetry compilation woven into an intimate story.
This will be followed by a screening of the powerful documentary, Blood and Water. Filmmaker and activist, Layla Staats will join Jillian to explore the nuances of Indigenous storytelling through film, sharing her personal journey of reclamation.
Layla Staats is Mohawk Turtle Clan from the Six Nations of the Grand River; she is a multidisciplinary artist and activist whose work draws upon the power of storytelling through digital media. Blood and Water, a self-narrated documentary produced by Staats, exposes the modern-day impact and generational trauma of residential schools. Layla Staats’ most recent work, Boil Alert, was featured at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival.
To close the evening, contemporary Indigenous dancers from the award-winning company Red Sky will- perform a piece from the production Miigis: Underwater Panther. Miigis reveals the power of nature through dance, theatrical innovation and a fusion of athleticism, music and film.
Take time following the show to explore some of the collection of paintings curated by Yonnhe’ón:we series sponsor, Shorelane Arts and experience visual storytelling through the artwork and incredible talent of Indigenous visual artists.
The rich tradition of storytelling is interwoven into the fabric of First Nations, Inuit and Métis culture. Stories are shared to teach, inspire and entertain. They share history, culture and spiritual beliefs that connect generations.
Tickets for the November 9th show are on sale through Eventbrite. To learn more visit www.collingwood.ca/yonne.