By KIRSTEN BOLTON
For ArtSpring
For two daytime performances on Tuesday, Oct. 29, ArtSpring hosts acclaimed Vancouver-based youth theatre company Axis Theatre and its production of Where Have All the Buffalo Gone? For the young and young at heart, the play is especially suited to engage youth in grades four through 11.
The story follows two Métis souls through seven different periods of Métis history. Audiences journey through the emergence of the Métis nations across the plains, the fur trade, the Riel Rebellion, the disappearance of the buffalo, World War I and residential schools, the Great Depression and the Indian Act. The story begins during creation amongst the stars and ends in present day.
The colourful production shares scenarios from the Callihoo family’s stories, incorporating fiddle music, jigging and a mesmerizing life-size buffalo puppet. Inspired by historical events of the Métis people of Canada, this original play for young audiences explores the loves, losses and fight of Treaty 6 Métis people — and their love and kinship with the buffalo.
Incorporating combinations of clown, mime, movement, mask work, puppetry and improvisation, Axis’ productions are performed in theatres and schools, enriching curriculum, drawing children into stories and giving them access to ideas in new ways. Their 59 original works have earned 21 Jessie Richardson Awards, A Betty Mitchell Award and a Drama Desk Nomination for Unique Theatrical Experience.
There are two showings: one at 11:10 a.m. reserved for teachers and school groups and one at 1 p.m. for the general public and as an optional time for older students or those outside the public school system.
Tickets are available online for the 1 p.m. show, or contact the box office to make arrangements for the morning show or to bring groups.
The play is 50 minutes long with a 15-minute talkback. Learning materials available upon request.