March 30, 2010

In February 2010, Debajehmujig was commissioned by the Department of Lands and Natural Resources in Wikwemikong to write and perform a custom show about land use. The play entitled “Re:Conncect” was conceptualized with the knowledge that our ways of using the land and taking care of the land are somewhat skewed. We’ve created an imbalance from the land that we once lived off because of our “drive-thru” lifestyles.

The four ‘land dwelling’ characters in the play - the Thunderbird, the Turtle, the Frog Monster and the Tree - have all been living in a ravine that the “top dwellers” have long forgotten. They live off the refuse that is constantly being dumped and thrown into the forgotten place. They clothe and house themselves with the recycled materials and even try and eat and drink from the refuse as the river that once flowed through this flourishing place is now dry.

It is up to Alex, a ten year old boy who discovers these once majestic creatures, to find the beauty and power that this place once held and restore it. In so doing, he would give life back to the forgotten creatures.

The performance effectively engaged a wide demographic of audience, from very young to elder. As can be seen by the photos, the extraordinary amount of work on the recycled set and costumes created a powerful environment in the studio that enhanced the themes of the show tenfold. The show brought together both traditional points of view and contemporary thought regarding land use, and helped the committee who commissioned the work to explicate its message while walking a fine community balance.

Designed and Directed by Josh Peltier

Creation Team and Performers: Kristy Deforge, Tabitha Peltier, Matthew Manitowabi, Jessica Wilde Peltier, Josh Peltier, Joe Osawbine

Production: David Osawabine, Ashley Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Jeffrey Barnhart, Adam Recollet