New Blood: A Story Of Reconciliation
A Burnt Thicket Theatre presentation in partnership with Persephone Theatre and Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre
We're bringing this acclaimed theatre production that blends poetry, song, and dance to Saskatchewan for the first time. The music of Peter Gabriel and Blackfoot tradition combine in the inspiring true story of Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman – his experience in residential school, how he reclaimed his way of life and became Chief of his people. Featuring dozens of performers from Siksika Nation and the Alberta Badlands.
Conceived & directed by Deanne Bertsch & Eulalia Running Rabbit. Talk-backs led by the artists follow every show.
When: March 10th and 11th, 2023 - One Weekend Only!
Fri. & Sat. 7:30pm; Sat. 2:00pm
Where: The Rawlco Radio Hall at The Remai Arts Centre
100 Spadina Crescent East, Saskatoon
Tickets: Pay-What-You-Choose $15-$50 - On Sale Now
Buy tickets online by clicking the button above or call (306) 384-7727 to purchase by phone from Persephone Theatre's Box Office.
This season we’re offering tickets at a range of prices, with general seating. If cost is a barrier, choose a $15 accessible ticket. If you’re able to contribute more, thank you for choosing to support our work so we can keep tickets affordable for everyone!
75 minutes runtime + 15 minute talk back with the artists.
Appropriate for ages 5 and up.
This presentation is made possible through the support of Production Sponsor Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation.
Responses to New Blood
“I was transported and captivated... a remarkable and powerful piece of theatre.” –D. Michael Dobbin, former Artistic Director, ATP
“I am very honoured to be a part of this New Blood show you've created... delighted my songs are being included. It is great work you are doing.” –Peter Gabriel (watch video message)
"I was deeply moved by the production... it promotes meaningful dialogue, mutual understanding and respect for cultures, histories and spiritual worldviews..." –Naheed Nenshi, former Mayor of Calgary (see letter of endorsement)
"New Blood's creation is the story of a gifted professional choreographer/high school dance/drama teacher following the inspiration of First Nations Elders and Artists toward an expression of honesty about the difficult story we hold together... And it is an astonishing creation." –Morris Ertman, Artistic Director, Rosebud Theatre (see letter of recommendation)
"New Blood is a powerful artistic telling of one elder’s IRS experience, coming from Siksika Nation in Alberta. I saw the show years ago and have wanted it to come to Saskatoon ever since." –Randy Klassen, Indigenous Neighbours Coordinator, MCC SK
New Blood Performers
Featuring Eulalia Running Rabbit, Eddi Wolf Child, Skip Wolf Leg, Trinity Pretty Youngman, Syrianna Running Rabbit, Straeden Running Rabbit, Honey Ayoungman, Kiaora Morningbull, Lessia Breaker, Eliana Breaker, Josh Winnipeg, Tia Wolfleg, Nikko Hunt, Trinity Haynes, Josie Herriot, Jenna Parkyn, Bailey Dallas, Chloe Kwak, Lia Chang, Evan Lloyd, Anthony Laycock, Preston Langille, Katelyn Cumming, Roo Van Bussell, Mary Harper, Evan Llord, Anthony Laycock, Charlie Ziehr, Sho Blunderfield, and Deanne Bertsch.
New Blood's connection with Burnt Thicket
Co-director Deanne Bertsch describes how working with Burnt Thicket in 2011-2012 shifted her approach to creating plays with high school students:
“Over a decade ago I was invited to choreograph Burnt Thicket Theatre’s production of She Has A Name. Before that experience I had always directed scripted plays. In working with playwright Andrew Kooman and director Stephen Waldschmidt, I discovered how powerful theatre can be when we devise our own stories inspired by the people around us, as an amazing opportunity to explore social justice realities. My experience with Burnt Thicket moved me towards devising theatre, towards creating shows that could truly make a difference and, in part, inspired New Blood. We are so grateful to be invited to be a part of Burnt Thicket Theatre’s 2023 season.” –Deanne Bertsch
“We’re presenting New Blood as a companion to our recent We Treaty People fiction podcast. Our communities need to take steps forward together to overcome racism and support truth, reconciliation, and healing from trauma. Co-director Deanne Bertsch’s choreography was a significant part of our national tour of She Has a Name. I'm immensely grateful that Deanne's experience on that production influenced her work since, as one path that led to this amazing story New Blood.” –Stephen Waldschmidt, artistic director, Burnt Thicket Theatre
Thoughts about New Blood from presenting partners
"New Blood is a unique performance that heads straight to the heart. A piece that keeps the forgotten unforgotten." –Jennifer Dawn Bishop, Artistic Director, Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre
"With its dance, music, and poetry, New Blood brings beauty and strength to the journey towards reconciliation, through a powerful story of cultural reclamation. I am looking forward to the deep conversations our community will have as a result of witnessing it." –Heather Cant, Artistic Director, Persephone Theatre