Tradition, science, identity and opportunism collide at a First Nation ranch in The Herd.
Mike Payette, Artistic Director of Tarragon Theatre and Managing Director Andrea Vagianos have announced the Toronto premiere of The Herd. The play, written by Kenneth T. Williams, runs in the Mainspace from May 10 - June 12, 2022 (opening May 11, 2022).
The Herd is a Tarragon Theatre presentation, in association with Citadel Theatre and NAC Indigenous Theatre of a Tarragon Theatre/Persephone Theatre Commission. When a pair of white bison are born into the herd of a First Nation ranch, the occurrence catches the attention of many from within and outside the First Nation they were born to, bringing celebration of a prophecy they may fulfill, viral internet attention and economic opportunity. Is the birth a feat of science or fulfillment of ancient prophecy? This is just one of the many questions The Herd asks, exploring themes of culture, identity, ownership and science vs. reality through. Moments of tension and humour are enhanced by an expansive production, featuring Andy Monro's set and projection designs. "We have waited for many years to finally realize The Herd and bring it to our stage. This piece is as current as ever as clashes between culture, media and science loom over our everyday and encourage us to check our values and re-connect our relationship to our environment. Kenneth's scope and humour elevates this story in a way that resonates with today's audience, and champions a significant moment for this First Nations community," notes Artistic Director Mike Payette
The Herd (Toronto Premiere)
written by Kenneth T. Williams
directed by Tara Beagan
May 10 - June 12 (opening May 11)
Mainspace
written by Kenneth T Williams
directed by Tara Beagan
apprentice director Shyanne Duquette
featuring Shyanne Duquette ("Sheila Kennedy"), Tai Amy Grauman ("Vanessa Brokenhorn"), Todd Hausman ("Coyote Jackson"), Cheyenne Scott ("Aislinn Kennedy"), Dylan Thomas-Bouchier ("Michael 'Baby Pete' Brokenhorn")
set and video design by Andy Moro
lighting design by Spike Lyne
assistant lighting and video design by Hailey Verbonac
costume design by Samantha McCue
sound design by Mishelle Cuttler
dialect coaching by Alison Matthews
stage management by Sang Sang Lee
apprentice stage management by Eloise Fan
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