The New Elders deals with the aftermath of a residential school trauma. Directed by Bruce Naokwegijig, it is a journey of a grandmother who has peculiar traits in an effort to cope with her life, like buying things at flea markets and filling up her house with all sorts of knickknacks and even old copies of Niagara Escarpment Views magazine. It was a surprise to see these copies on stage, and it was actually an honour to see them included as props in the set.
Played by Cotnee Kaboni, the character of the grandma moves from perpetuating violence from her school days, as she did by beating her son with a shoe, to being able to let go of some of her hoarded items. Her son Thomas is played by Daniel Recollet and her daughter Gladys by Tabitha Pelletier. There is also a grandson Gabe played by Tyler Pangowish. After the grandma passes away, her children and grandchild pay tribute to her through words and traditional commemorative gestures.
The play is mostly spoken in English, with a smattering of Anishinaabemowin. I don’t speak Ojibwe, but it’s interesting that I did not have a problem understanding the play. A local Wiikwemkoong woman in the audience caught a few jokes.
Not just the play alone, but the whole building contributes to the experience by offering some surprises. Before the play started, we could examine some exhibits in the theater lobby, including old photos of residential schools, of First Nation individuals doing non-Indigenous (i.e. European) activities like boxing and ice skating. There are photos of priests and school superintendents and even actual priests’ robes. A classroom is depicted, effectively showing the rigidity of “western” teachings such as reading and writing, with no acknowledgement of Indigenous heritage. A chair holds a brush and scissors, representing the cutting short of children’s hair. Words on the blackboard reminds students that speaking the “Indian language” is forbidden.
After the play, the exit leads to a transformed display, with priests’ robes replaced with traditional Ojibwe dress. Photos are replaced with paintings, both of individuals and art. It was very effective messaging reflecting the journey of the play from suffering to celebrating the First Nations culture. Everyone was then invited to a “peace room” after the play, to informally chat with other audience members, cast and crew. Fresh berries, fruit, snacks, drinks and specialty tea were offered. Smudging supplies were available to use, too.
I recommend this play experience to everyone. You will not be disappointed.
Until August 10 at Debajehmujig Creation Centre, 43 Queen St., Manitowaning, Manitoulin Island. Play length is one hour. Remaining performances are Aug. 7, 8, 9, 10, starting at 7pm. Doors are open at 6pm. A matinee is offered on Aug. 10 at 2 pm. Recommended admission: $25 per person.
