De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group
Encyclopedia
Debajehmujig / De-ba-jeh-mu-jig - Storytellers (or informally as Debaj) is a First Nations
theatre group based on Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve
on Manitoulin Island
in Northern Ontario
.
(tepācimūcik), both meaning "storytellers". De-ba-jeh-mu-jig grew out of West Bay (now known as M'Chigeeng) Children's Theatre which was founded by Shirley Cheechoo
. In 1981, Cheechoo was asked to "host the theatre part of the festival {of sharing}" . Presently, the company plays throughout Canada under its Outreach program. The company was established so that "Native youth be given the opportunity to see themselves and their lives reflected on the stage, in the characters, in the stories, in the experiences portrayed."
Cheechoo was artistic director
from 1983/1984 "until {in the later 1980s} it went to Wiky {Wikwemikong Uncede Indian Reserve}".
The theatre has a strong history of community involvement. Shirley Cheechoo has stated that "usually every time we did some kind of workshop or even if it was in writing we would do a reading just to show the community what we were doing. Wa walsy wanted to show the community exactly what the theatre was developing at the time"
The theatre strives to "bridge" the urban and rural, native and non-native communities and artists, traditional and contemporary forms of expression .
Its repertoire generally presents plays reflecting Native culture, and tours Canada. Shirley Cheechoo, talking about touring, suggests that
The theatre's mandate, which was changed in 1993 by its board of directors, states that Debaj "is a professional community based non-profit organization dedicated to the vitalization of the Anishnaabeg Culture, Language and Heritage, through education and the sharing of original creative expression with Native and Non-Native people."
Debaj is one of two professional Native theatres in Ontario and is the longest running Native theatre in North America
.
2008=
Mainstage production performed at the Holy Cross Mission Ruins - Wikwemikong, ON
Creation Team: Bruce Naokwegijig, Ron Berti, Jonathan Fisher, Vanessa Ominika, Jessica Wilde, Tabitha Peltier, Matthew Manitowabi, Joe Osawabine, Josh Peltier & Joahnna Berti
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig with Ron Berti
Costumes: Bill Shawanda
Set construction: Ashley Manitowabi
Musical Support: Gregory Hoskins
Props: Josh Peltier, Ashley Manitowabi
Performers: Jonathan Fisher, Vanessa Ominika, Jessica Wilde, Tabitha Peltier, Matthew Manitowabi with Joe Osawabine, Josh Peltier & Bruce Naokwegijig
Performed at the Red Lake Woodland Arts Festival - Red Lake, ON
Director: Joe Osawabine
Creative Consultant: Ron Berti
Costumes: Bill Shawanda
Musical Support: Gregory Hoskins
Technical Assistance: David (Sunny) Osawabine & Barry Beaver
Creation Team/ Performers: Joe Osawabine, Joahnna Berti, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Bill Shawanda, Gregory Hoskins, Jessica Wilde, Ron Berti & Kristen Wakegijig
Creation Team: John Turner
, Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Ron Berti, Bruce Naokwegijig & Joahnna Berti
Director: John Turner
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Set Design: Josh Peltier
Set construction Consultant: Gino Cacciotti
Performers: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Bruce Naokwegijig, and Tabitha Peltier
Based on Anishnaabeg Texts by Angeline Williams
Adapted for the Stage by Ron Berti
Co-directors: Ron Berti and Joe Osawabine
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Violet (Rosa) Burke-Pitawanakwat, Dan Czech, Bernadette Eshkawkogan, Meegwun Fairbrother, Eli Kavanaugh, Joshua Peltier & Jessica Wilde
Creation Team: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar and Ron Berti with Shelagh Hughes, Eli Kavanaugh, Kotnee, Tammy Manitowabi-Shawanda, Doreen Peltier, Josh Peltier & Evelyn Roy
Set Design: Ron Berti
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Shelagh Hughes, Eli Kavanaugh, Kotnee, Tammy Manitowabi-Shawanda, Joe Osawabine, Doreen Peltier, Josh Peltier, Evelyn Roy & Elisha Sidlar
Written by: Chris Craddock
Cultural Adaptation by De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group
Performers: Eli Kavanaugh, Ashley Manitowabi, Joe Osawabine, Brenda Peeteetuce & Elisha Sidlar
Written by Shirley Cheechoo and Greta Cheechoo
Director: Kate Lushington
Set Design: Peter Jones
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Stage Management: Jeff Trudeau
Performers: Tina Louise Bomberry, Gloria May Eshkibok & Gregory Dominic Odjig
The Gift
Story & Teachings by Eddie King
Additional writing and Dramaturgy by Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, and Paula Wing
Masks by Theo Dragonieri
Performers: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar & Jimy Sidlar-Bebonang
The Promise
Original Dance
Director/Writer/Choreographer: Karen Pheasant
Performers: Nyla Carpentier, Michelle Elliot & Elizabeth Trudeau
Written by Tomson Highway
Director: John Turner
Set Design: Peter Jones
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Elisha Sidlar
Adaptation of Traditional Stories as retold by Daphne Odjig
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Sharon King, Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar & Chris Wemigwans
Ever! That Nanabush!
Adaptation of Traditional Stories retold by Daphne Odjig
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Set Design: Joe Osawabine
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Ralph Courtorielle, Sharon King, Tammy Manitowabi, Elisha Sidlar & Chris Wemigwans
Written by Daniel David Moses
Adapted for the Stage by Director: Barbara Poggemiller 2001
Remount Director: Joe Osawabine 2002
Performers: Rachell Arbez, Ralph Courtorielle, Sharon King, Joe Osawabine, Angie Pitawanakwat, Harmony Rice, Kira Sandel, Michaela Washburn & Amy White
Director: David Skelton with John Turner
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Raistlen Jones, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Chris Wemigwans
Based on the Story by Daniel David Moses
Adapted for the Stage by Director: Barbara Poggemiller
Performers: Gregor Jacko, Tamara Podemski, Crystal Lynn Shawanda & Michaela Washburn
New World Brave
Millennium Project - A Group Creation of Inuk, Woodlands Ojibway, Odawa, Pottawatomi, Woodlands Cree, Innu and Metis Artists
Director: David Skelton with Alejandro Ronceria, Eddie King and Deanna Sager
Performers: James Bear, Cameron Courtorielle, Raistlen Jones, Lamech Kadloo, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Chris Wemigwans
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Audrey Debassige, Assistant Director: Bossy Ducharme
Performers: Bruce Naokwegijig, Greg Odjig & Joe Osawabine
Toronto At Dreamer’s Rock
10th anniversary production at the Holy Cross Mission Ruins in Wikwemikong
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Audrey Debassige
Performers: Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Dominic Odjig & Joe Osawabine
Toronto @dreamersrock.com
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
World Premiere
Director: Jonathan Fisher
Performers: Bossy Ducharme, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan & Billy Shawanda
A Collective Creation - The Best Medicine Troupe and Family Life Theatre
Director: Ron Berti – 1998
Director: Joe Osawabine - 1999
Performers: Adrian Gabrylewicz, Sandra Iles, Joe Osawabine, Bill Shawanda & Crystal Lynn Shawanda
1998
Please Do Not Touch The Indians
Written by Joseph A. Dandurand
Director: Ron Bert, Assistant Director: Joe Osawabine
Set Design: Karin Jones
Performers: Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Elijah Kavannaugh, Joe Osawabine, Brandy Peltier & Shandra Spears
Sky - An Aboriginal Cross-Cultural Dance Drama
A Collaborated Creation by members of the T’simshian, Inuit, and Ojibway Nation
Director: David Skelton
Performers: Darryl Bolton, Malaya Kango, Jayson Mablick, Tahnee Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Odjig & Peter Tuesday
1997 & 1998
Biidaasigekwe - Sunlight Woman - Tour Based on Anishnaabeg Texts by Angeline Williams, Adapted for the Stage by Ron Berti
Director: Ron Berti
Performers: Sally Atchitiwens, Faith Ann Manitowabi, Mary Lou Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Kevin Peltier, Sophie Pheasant, Shandra Spears & Peter Tuesday
1996 & 1997
Broken Snowshoe Moon - Tours
Written by Amie Lynn Ominika
Directors: Shirley Cheechoo –1996
Remount Director: Audrey Debassige - 1997
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Greta Cheechoo, Walter Mejaki, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine, Billy Shawanda & Bertha Trudeau
Lost Warrior
Written by Darrel Manitowabi
Directors: Shirley Cheechoo – 1996
Remount Director: Audrey Debassige - 1997
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Greta Cheechoo, Walter Mejaki, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine, Billy Shawanda & Bertha Trudeau
1996
The Best Medicine Show
A Collective Creation
Director: Enio Mascherin & Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Justine Enosse, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Francis Kaboni, Karen Manitowabi, Mary Lou Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Dominic Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Genevieve Peltier, Joshua Peltier, Kevin Peltier, Leroy Peltier, Sophie Pheasant, Violet (Rosa) Pitawanakwat, Joni Roy & Marilyn Roy
1995
Lupi, The Great White Wolf - Remount Tour
Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Alanis King-Odjig & Alejandro Ronceria
Set Design: Stephan Droege
Costume Design: Linda Leon
Performers: Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Gregory Fisher, Rona George, Tahnee Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Clayton Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Joshua Peltier, Leroy Peltier, Angie Pitawanakwat & Billy Shawanda
1994
The Tommy Prince Story
Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Paul Thompson
Set Design: -
Performers: Glen Gould, Kevin Peltier & Shandra Spears
1994 & 1995
The Manitoulin Incident
- (Remount 1995) Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Paul Thompson
Set Design: Karin Jones
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Gilbert Clements, Mark Dieter, Gloria May Eshkibok, Bruno Gaudette, Rona George, Cherylynn Kitchikake, Sandra Laronde, Louis Lefebvre, Doris Linklater, April Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Jack Nicholsen, Clayton Odjig, Joey Osawabine, Leroy Peltier, Vicky Peltier & Angeline Pitawanakwat
1993
If Jesus Met Nanabush – Tour
Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Anne Anglin
Performers: Sharon King, Alon Nashman & Clayton Odjig
New Voices Woman - Tour
Written by Larry E. Lewis
Director: Alanis King Odjig
Performers: Levi Aguonia, Gilbert Clements, Leonard Lacquette, Carmen Moore & Maria Whitefish
New Voices Woman
Written by Larry E. Lewis
Director: Alanis King Odjig with Alejandro Ronceria
Set Design: Linda Leon
Performers: Levi Aguonie, David Assiniwe, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Gloria Eshkibok, Rona George, Francis Kaboni, Anonghous Kitchikake, Pamela Manitowabi, Shannon Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Kristine Ominika, Joe Osawabine, Duke Peltier, Joshua Peltier & Adam Shawana
1992
20th Century Indian Boy
Written by Mark Seabrook
Director: Alanis King-Odjig
Performers: Jerome Basque, Jonathan Fisher, Julia Pegahmagabow & Mark Seabrook
Someday
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Joy Keeper, Doris Linklater & Edna Manitowabi
1991/ 1992
Lupi, The Great White Wolf – Mainstage & Touring Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Harvey Bell, Jonathon Debassige, Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Gregory Fisher, Jonathon Fisher, Rona George, Shannon Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Clayton Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Leroy Peltier, Crystal Lynn Shawanda & Ruby Trudeau
1990
First Love
Written by Diane Debassige
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Diane Debassige, Michael Johns, Mark Seabrook & Wyonna Wesley
Quest For Fire
Written by Lenore Keeshig-Tobias
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Diane Debassige, Michael Johns, Mark Seabrook & Wyonna Wesley The
Bootlegger Blues
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Jani Lauzon, Dwayne Manitowabi, Billy Merasty & Clayton Odjig
Pictures on the Wall
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso
Word Magic
Written by Lenore Keeshig-Tobias
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso The Thunderbird Children
Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso
1989
Education Is Our Right
- 1989 Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Debbie Anwhatin, Bruce Armstrong, Jack Burning
Toronto At Dreamer’s Rock
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan & Dwayne Manitowabi
The Rez Sisters
Written by Tomson Highway
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Gloria Eshkibok, Pokey Fox, Sheri Jacko, Clayton Odjig, Gordie Odjig, Gina Simon Gasongi & Rose Marie Trudeau
1988
Nanabush of the 80's
Written by Kennetch Charlette, Shirley Cheechoo & Alanis King
Performers: Monty Bass, Kennetch Charlette, Shirley Cheechoo, Gloria Eshkibok, Alanis King & Gordie Odjig
1986
Aria
Written by Tomson Highway
Directed by Larry E. Lewis
Nothing Personal
Written by Shirley Cheechoo & Alanis King
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Gloria Eshkibok, Alanis King & Rose Marie Trudeau
Ayash
Written by Jim Morris
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Anne McCue, Shirley Cheechoo, Ron Cook & Rene Highway
1985
A Ridiculous Spectacle in One Act
Written by Tomson Highway
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Mary Green, Tomson Highway, Meika Kleist & Doris Linklater
1984
Shadow People
Written by Shirley Cheechoo
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Shirley Cheechoo, Ron Cook, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Mary Green, Tomson Highway Doris Linklater & Dwayne Manitowabi
Respect the Voice of the Child
Written by Shirley Cheechoo & Billy Merasty
Director: Shirley Cheechoo
Performers: Mark Bruder, Shirley Cheechoo, Cynthia Debassige, Diane Debassige, Lawrence Martin & Billy Merasty
First Nations
First Nations is a term that collectively refers to various Aboriginal peoples in Canada who are neither Inuit nor Métis. There are currently over 630 recognised First Nations governments or bands spread across Canada, roughly half of which are in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. The...
theatre group based on Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve
Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve
Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve is an Indian reserve in the north-eastern section of Manitoulin Island in Manitoulin District, Ontario, Canada...
on Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island is a Canadian island in Lake Huron, in the province of Ontario. It is the largest island in a freshwater lake in the world. In addition to the historic Anishinaabe and European settlement of the island, archeological discoveries at Sheguiandah have demonstrated Paleo-Indian and...
in Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario is a region of the Canadian province of Ontario which lies north of Lake Huron , the French River and Lake Nipissing. The region has a land area of 802,000 km2 and constitutes 87% of the land area of Ontario, although it contains only about 6% of the population...
.
History
De-ba-jeh-mu-jig is from the Ojibwe (debaajimoojig) and CreeCree language
Cree is an Algonquian language spoken by approximately 117,000 people across Canada, from the Northwest Territories and Alberta to Labrador, making it the aboriginal language with the highest number of speakers in Canada. It is also spoken in the U.S. state of Montana...
(tepācimūcik), both meaning "storytellers". De-ba-jeh-mu-jig grew out of West Bay (now known as M'Chigeeng) Children's Theatre which was founded by Shirley Cheechoo
Shirley Cheechoo
Shirley Cheechoo is an award winning Cree actress, writer, producer, director, and visual artist, probably best known for her solo-voice or monodrama play Path With No Moccasins, as well as her work with De-Ba-Jeh-Mu-Jig theatre group...
. In 1981, Cheechoo was asked to "host the theatre part of the festival {of sharing}" . Presently, the company plays throughout Canada under its Outreach program. The company was established so that "Native youth be given the opportunity to see themselves and their lives reflected on the stage, in the characters, in the stories, in the experiences portrayed."
Cheechoo was artistic director
Artistic director
An artistic director is the executive of an arts organization, particularly in a theatre company, that handles the organization's artistic direction. He or she is generally a producer and director, but not in the sense of a mogul, since the organization is generally a non-profit organization...
from 1983/1984 "until {in the later 1980s} it went to Wiky {Wikwemikong Uncede Indian Reserve}".
The theatre has a strong history of community involvement. Shirley Cheechoo has stated that "usually every time we did some kind of workshop or even if it was in writing we would do a reading just to show the community what we were doing. Wa walsy wanted to show the community exactly what the theatre was developing at the time"
The theatre strives to "bridge" the urban and rural, native and non-native communities and artists, traditional and contemporary forms of expression .
Its repertoire generally presents plays reflecting Native culture, and tours Canada. Shirley Cheechoo, talking about touring, suggests that
it's very wise to tour because most of the issues and situations that happen on one reserve are happening on every reserve. I thought it would be best to share what come up with other communities
The theatre's mandate, which was changed in 1993 by its board of directors, states that Debaj "is a professional community based non-profit organization dedicated to the vitalization of the Anishnaabeg Culture, Language and Heritage, through education and the sharing of original creative expression with Native and Non-Native people."
Debaj is one of two professional Native theatres in Ontario and is the longest running Native theatre in North America
North America
North America is a continent wholly within the Northern Hemisphere and almost wholly within the Western Hemisphere. It is also considered a northern subcontinent of the Americas...
.
Current Core Staff 2011/2012
| Title | Name |
|---|---|
| Executive Director/Artistic Producer | Ron Berti |
| Artistic Director - Theatre | Joseph Osawabine |
| Artistic Director - School | Bruce Naokwegijig |
| Administrative Director - School | Joahnna Berti |
| Director of Technology | Chris Deforge |
| Cultural Community Liaison | Audrey Wemigwans |
| Costume/Fashion Manager | Carolyn Deforge |
| Finance Manager | Sharlene MacDonald |
| Shop Manager | Ashley Manitowabi |
| Lighting/Sound Director | David Osawabine |
| Visual Arts Director | Josh Peltier |
| IT Manager | Justin Deforge |
- TURNIP DAY - JIIS GIIZHIGAT
Mainstage production performed at the Holy Cross Mission Ruins - Wikwemikong, ON
Creation Team: Bruce Naokwegijig, Ron Berti, Jonathan Fisher, Vanessa Ominika, Jessica Wilde, Tabitha Peltier, Matthew Manitowabi, Joe Osawabine, Josh Peltier & Joahnna Berti
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig with Ron Berti
Juno Award for Video of the Year
The Juno Award for "Video of the Year" has been awarded since 1984, as recognition each year for the best music video in Canada. The award was previously called the "Best Video".-Best Video :...
Costumes: Bill Shawanda
Set construction: Ashley Manitowabi
Musical Support: Gregory Hoskins
Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople
Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople were a Canadian folk rock band in the 1990s, best known for their 1991 single "Neighbourhood". The band consisted of vocalist and guitarist Gregory Hoskins, backing vocalist Lynn Simmons, keyboardist George Civello, saxophonist Colleen Allen, bass guitarist Mike...
Props: Josh Peltier, Ashley Manitowabi
Performers: Jonathan Fisher, Vanessa Ominika, Jessica Wilde, Tabitha Peltier, Matthew Manitowabi with Joe Osawabine, Josh Peltier & Bruce Naokwegijig
- Norval – A Born Artist A New Creation by De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group based on the life and times of Norval MorrisseauNorval MorrisseauNorval Morrisseau, CM , also known as Copper Thunderbird, was an Aboriginal Canadian artist. Known as the "Picasso of the North", Morrisseau created works depicting the legends of his people, the cultural and political tensions between native Canadian and European traditions, his existential...
Performed at the Red Lake Woodland Arts Festival - Red Lake, ON
Director: Joe Osawabine
Creative Consultant: Ron Berti
Costumes: Bill Shawanda
Musical Support: Gregory Hoskins
Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople
Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople were a Canadian folk rock band in the 1990s, best known for their 1991 single "Neighbourhood". The band consisted of vocalist and guitarist Gregory Hoskins, backing vocalist Lynn Simmons, keyboardist George Civello, saxophonist Colleen Allen, bass guitarist Mike...
Technical Assistance: David (Sunny) Osawabine & Barry Beaver
Creation Team/ Performers: Joe Osawabine, Joahnna Berti, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Bill Shawanda, Gregory Hoskins, Jessica Wilde, Ron Berti & Kristen Wakegijig
2007
The GulchCreation Team: John Turner
Mump and Smoot
Mump & Smoot are a Canadian clown duo created by Michael Kennard and John Turner, directed by Karen Hines. Also referred to as 'clowns of horror' they've produced interactive, improvisational plays aimed squarely at adult audiences.-Background:...
, Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Ron Berti, Bruce Naokwegijig & Joahnna Berti
Director: John Turner
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Set Design: Josh Peltier
Set construction Consultant: Gino Cacciotti
Performers: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, Matthew Manitowabi, Josh Peltier, Bruce Naokwegijig, and Tabitha Peltier
2006
Biidaasigekwe - Sunlight WomanBased on Anishnaabeg Texts by Angeline Williams
Adapted for the Stage by Ron Berti
Co-directors: Ron Berti and Joe Osawabine
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Violet (Rosa) Burke-Pitawanakwat, Dan Czech, Bernadette Eshkawkogan, Meegwun Fairbrother, Eli Kavanaugh, Joshua Peltier & Jessica Wilde
2005
The Indian AffairsCreation Team: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar and Ron Berti with Shelagh Hughes, Eli Kavanaugh, Kotnee, Tammy Manitowabi-Shawanda, Doreen Peltier, Josh Peltier & Evelyn Roy
Set Design: Ron Berti
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Shelagh Hughes, Eli Kavanaugh, Kotnee, Tammy Manitowabi-Shawanda, Joe Osawabine, Doreen Peltier, Josh Peltier, Evelyn Roy & Elisha Sidlar
2004/ 2005
BillyWritten by: Chris Craddock
Cultural Adaptation by De-ba-jeh-mu-jig Theatre Group
Performers: Eli Kavanaugh, Ashley Manitowabi, Joe Osawabine, Brenda Peeteetuce & Elisha Sidlar
2004
Your Dream Was MineWritten by Shirley Cheechoo and Greta Cheechoo
Director: Kate Lushington
Set Design: Peter Jones
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Stage Management: Jeff Trudeau
Performers: Tina Louise Bomberry, Gloria May Eshkibok & Gregory Dominic Odjig
The Gift
Story & Teachings by Eddie King
Additional writing and Dramaturgy by Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar, and Paula Wing
Masks by Theo Dragonieri
Performers: Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar & Jimy Sidlar-Bebonang
The Promise
Original Dance
Director/Writer/Choreographer: Karen Pheasant
Performers: Nyla Carpentier, Michelle Elliot & Elizabeth Trudeau
2003
A Trickster’s TaleWritten by Tomson Highway
Tomson Highway
Tomson Highway, CM is a celebrated Canadian and Cree playwright, novelist, and children's author. He is the author of the plays The Rez Sisters and Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing, both of which won him the Dora Mavor Moore Award and the Floyd S...
Director: John Turner
Set Design: Peter Jones
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Elisha Sidlar
2002
Ever! That Nanabush! - TourAdaptation of Traditional Stories as retold by Daphne Odjig
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Performers: Sharon King, Joe Osawabine, Elisha Sidlar & Chris Wemigwans
Ever! That Nanabush!
Adaptation of Traditional Stories retold by Daphne Odjig
Director: Bruce Naokwegijig
Costume Design: Bill Shawanda
Set Design: Joe Osawabine
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Ralph Courtorielle, Sharon King, Tammy Manitowabi, Elisha Sidlar & Chris Wemigwans
2001/ 2002
The Dreaming Beauty – TourWritten by Daniel David Moses
Adapted for the Stage by Director: Barbara Poggemiller 2001
Remount Director: Joe Osawabine 2002
Performers: Rachell Arbez, Ralph Courtorielle, Sharon King, Joe Osawabine, Angie Pitawanakwat, Harmony Rice, Kira Sandel, Michaela Washburn & Amy White
2001
New World Brave - Remount A Group CreationDirector: David Skelton with John Turner
Performers: Cameron Courtorielle, Raistlen Jones, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Chris Wemigwans
2000
The Dreaming BeautyBased on the Story by Daniel David Moses
Adapted for the Stage by Director: Barbara Poggemiller
Performers: Gregor Jacko, Tamara Podemski, Crystal Lynn Shawanda & Michaela Washburn
New World Brave
Millennium Project - A Group Creation of Inuk, Woodlands Ojibway, Odawa, Pottawatomi, Woodlands Cree, Innu and Metis Artists
Director: David Skelton with Alejandro Ronceria, Eddie King and Deanna Sager
Performers: James Bear, Cameron Courtorielle, Raistlen Jones, Lamech Kadloo, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine & Chris Wemigwans
1999
Toronto @ dreamersrock.com – TourWritten by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Audrey Debassige, Assistant Director: Bossy Ducharme
Performers: Bruce Naokwegijig, Greg Odjig & Joe Osawabine
Toronto At Dreamer’s Rock
10th anniversary production at the Holy Cross Mission Ruins in Wikwemikong
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Audrey Debassige
Performers: Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Dominic Odjig & Joe Osawabine
Toronto @dreamersrock.com
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
World Premiere
Director: Jonathan Fisher
Performers: Bossy Ducharme, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan & Billy Shawanda
1998/ 1999
The Jerry Jessie Jones ShowA Collective Creation - The Best Medicine Troupe and Family Life Theatre
Director: Ron Berti – 1998
Director: Joe Osawabine - 1999
Performers: Adrian Gabrylewicz, Sandra Iles, Joe Osawabine, Bill Shawanda & Crystal Lynn Shawanda
1998
Please Do Not Touch The Indians
Written by Joseph A. Dandurand
Director: Ron Bert, Assistant Director: Joe Osawabine
Set Design: Karin Jones
Performers: Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Elijah Kavannaugh, Joe Osawabine, Brandy Peltier & Shandra Spears
Sky - An Aboriginal Cross-Cultural Dance Drama
A Collaborated Creation by members of the T’simshian, Inuit, and Ojibway Nation
Director: David Skelton
Performers: Darryl Bolton, Malaya Kango, Jayson Mablick, Tahnee Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Odjig & Peter Tuesday
1997 & 1998
Biidaasigekwe - Sunlight Woman - Tour Based on Anishnaabeg Texts by Angeline Williams, Adapted for the Stage by Ron Berti
Director: Ron Berti
Performers: Sally Atchitiwens, Faith Ann Manitowabi, Mary Lou Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Kevin Peltier, Sophie Pheasant, Shandra Spears & Peter Tuesday
1996 & 1997
Broken Snowshoe Moon - Tours
Written by Amie Lynn Ominika
Directors: Shirley Cheechoo –1996
Remount Director: Audrey Debassige - 1997
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Greta Cheechoo, Walter Mejaki, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine, Billy Shawanda & Bertha Trudeau
Lost Warrior
Written by Darrel Manitowabi
Directors: Shirley Cheechoo – 1996
Remount Director: Audrey Debassige - 1997
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Greta Cheechoo, Walter Mejaki, Bruce Naokwegijig, Joe Osawabine, Billy Shawanda & Bertha Trudeau
1996
The Best Medicine Show
A Collective Creation
Director: Enio Mascherin & Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Justine Enosse, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Francis Kaboni, Karen Manitowabi, Mary Lou Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Gregory Dominic Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Genevieve Peltier, Joshua Peltier, Kevin Peltier, Leroy Peltier, Sophie Pheasant, Violet (Rosa) Pitawanakwat, Joni Roy & Marilyn Roy
1995
Lupi, The Great White Wolf - Remount Tour
Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Alanis King-Odjig & Alejandro Ronceria
Set Design: Stephan Droege
Costume Design: Linda Leon
Performers: Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Gregory Fisher, Rona George, Tahnee Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Clayton Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Joshua Peltier, Leroy Peltier, Angie Pitawanakwat & Billy Shawanda
1994
The Tommy Prince Story
Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Paul Thompson
Set Design: -
Performers: Glen Gould, Kevin Peltier & Shandra Spears
1994 & 1995
The Manitoulin Incident
- (Remount 1995) Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Paul Thompson
Set Design: Karin Jones
Performers: Levi Aguonie, Gilbert Clements, Mark Dieter, Gloria May Eshkibok, Bruno Gaudette, Rona George, Cherylynn Kitchikake, Sandra Laronde, Louis Lefebvre, Doris Linklater, April Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Jack Nicholsen, Clayton Odjig, Joey Osawabine, Leroy Peltier, Vicky Peltier & Angeline Pitawanakwat
1993
If Jesus Met Nanabush – Tour
Written by Alanis King-Odjig
Director: Anne Anglin
Performers: Sharon King, Alon Nashman & Clayton Odjig
New Voices Woman - Tour
Written by Larry E. Lewis
Director: Alanis King Odjig
Performers: Levi Aguonia, Gilbert Clements, Leonard Lacquette, Carmen Moore & Maria Whitefish
New Voices Woman
Written by Larry E. Lewis
Director: Alanis King Odjig with Alejandro Ronceria
Set Design: Linda Leon
Performers: Levi Aguonie, David Assiniwe, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Gloria Eshkibok, Rona George, Francis Kaboni, Anonghous Kitchikake, Pamela Manitowabi, Shannon Manitowabi, Vince Manitowabi, Bruce Naokwegijig, Kristine Ominika, Joe Osawabine, Duke Peltier, Joshua Peltier & Adam Shawana
1992
20th Century Indian Boy
Written by Mark Seabrook
Director: Alanis King-Odjig
Performers: Jerome Basque, Jonathan Fisher, Julia Pegahmagabow & Mark Seabrook
Someday
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Joy Keeper, Doris Linklater & Edna Manitowabi
1991/ 1992
Lupi, The Great White Wolf – Mainstage & Touring Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Harvey Bell, Jonathon Debassige, Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Gregory Fisher, Jonathon Fisher, Rona George, Shannon Manitowabi, Bruce Noakwegijig, Clayton Odjig, Joe Osawabine, Leroy Peltier, Crystal Lynn Shawanda & Ruby Trudeau
1990
First Love
Written by Diane Debassige
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Diane Debassige, Michael Johns, Mark Seabrook & Wyonna Wesley
Quest For Fire
Written by Lenore Keeshig-Tobias
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Diane Debassige, Michael Johns, Mark Seabrook & Wyonna Wesley The
Bootlegger Blues
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Justine Enosse, Gloria Eshkibok, Jani Lauzon, Dwayne Manitowabi, Billy Merasty & Clayton Odjig
Pictures on the Wall
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso
Word Magic
Written by Lenore Keeshig-Tobias
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso The Thunderbird Children
Written by Esther Jacko
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Rob Hunter, Vince Latrimoulle & Bernadette Wassengeso
1989
Education Is Our Right
- 1989 Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Debbie Anwhatin, Bruce Armstrong, Jack Burning
Toronto At Dreamer’s Rock
Written by Drew Hayden Taylor
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Herbie Barnes, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan & Dwayne Manitowabi
The Rez Sisters
Written by Tomson Highway
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Audrey Debassige, Gloria Eshkibok, Pokey Fox, Sheri Jacko, Clayton Odjig, Gordie Odjig, Gina Simon Gasongi & Rose Marie Trudeau
1988
Nanabush of the 80's
Written by Kennetch Charlette, Shirley Cheechoo & Alanis King
Performers: Monty Bass, Kennetch Charlette, Shirley Cheechoo, Gloria Eshkibok, Alanis King & Gordie Odjig
1986
Aria
Written by Tomson Highway
Directed by Larry E. Lewis
Nothing Personal
Written by Shirley Cheechoo & Alanis King
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Gloria Eshkibok, Alanis King & Rose Marie Trudeau
Ayash
Written by Jim Morris
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Anne McCue, Shirley Cheechoo, Ron Cook & Rene Highway
1985
A Ridiculous Spectacle in One Act
Written by Tomson Highway
Director: Larry E. Lewis
Performers: Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Mary Green, Tomson Highway, Meika Kleist & Doris Linklater
1984
Shadow People
Written by Shirley Cheechoo
Director: Vinetta Strombergs
Performers: Shirley Cheechoo, Ron Cook, Jeffrey Eshkawkogan, Mary Green, Tomson Highway Doris Linklater & Dwayne Manitowabi
Respect the Voice of the Child
Written by Shirley Cheechoo & Billy Merasty
Director: Shirley Cheechoo
Performers: Mark Bruder, Shirley Cheechoo, Cynthia Debassige, Diane Debassige, Lawrence Martin & Billy Merasty
- The Rez Sisters by Tomson HighwayTomson HighwayTomson Highway, CM is a celebrated Canadian and Cree playwright, novelist, and children's author. He is the author of the plays The Rez Sisters and Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing, both of which won him the Dora Mavor Moore Award and the Floyd S...
, was first workshopped and developed De-ba-jeh-mu-jig theatre in February 1986. - A Ridiculous Spectacle in One Act (aka Many-Toe Lynn Aileen) by Tomson Highway developed out of workshops done in 1985
- Shadow People by Shirley Cheechoo
- Path With No Moccasins by Shirley Cheechoo
Notable alumni
- Shirley CheechooShirley CheechooShirley Cheechoo is an award winning Cree actress, writer, producer, director, and visual artist, probably best known for her solo-voice or monodrama play Path With No Moccasins, as well as her work with De-Ba-Jeh-Mu-Jig theatre group...
— founder, actor, playwright, artistic director, board member - Tomson HighwayTomson HighwayTomson Highway, CM is a celebrated Canadian and Cree playwright, novelist, and children's author. He is the author of the plays The Rez Sisters and Dry Lips Oughta Move to Kapuskasing, both of which won him the Dora Mavor Moore Award and the Floyd S...
— playwright, actor, artistic director (1984/85) - Larry Lewis — artistic director (1985/86).
- Alanis King — actress, artistic director
- Rene HighwayRené HighwayRené Highway was a Canadian dancer and actor of Cree descent from Brochet, Manitoba. He was the brother of playwright Tomson Highway, with whom he frequently collaborated during their time at Native Earth Performing Arts in Toronto, and the partner of actor and singer Micah Barnes.Highway studied...
— actor - Drew Hayden TaylorDrew Hayden TaylorDrew Hayden Taylor is a Canadian playwright, author and journalist.Born in Curve Lake, Ontario, Taylor is part Ojibwa and part Caucasian. About his background Taylor says: "I plan to start my own nation. Because I am half Ojibway half Caucasian, we will be called the occasions...
— actor, playwright