OUJÉ-BOUGOUMOU, QC, Feb. 24, 2014 /CNW/ – Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute (ACCI) is pleased to announce the Book launch of the Mind’s Eye written by Emily Masty and Susan Marshall and premier performance of the theatrical production, Mind’s Eye, on March 1, 2014 in Whapmagoostui.
The theatrical production, Mind’s Eye, is directed by Shirley Cheechoo, An accomplished playwright, actor, visual artist, writer and director, Dr. Shirley Cheechoo is also a member of the James Bay Cree of Quebec.
Mind’s Eye Synopsis
Historical, mystical and poignant, Minds Eye is a play that chronicles the first chapters of the book by the same name written by Emily Masty and Susan Marshall. Following powerful stories of survival, courage, honour and community, Mind’s Eye breathes life into our great mysteries and truths as we encounter The Lady Spirit of the Caribou and other animal spirits while Akanipitat and his people move through times of suffering and times of abundance. Narrated by a Cree Elder, Minds Eye magically follows the lives of hunters and their families through spirit encounters, shaking tent ceremonies, and haunting dreams as they face life, death and redemption until the final warning that soon, they will encounter visitors that will alter their lives forever.
The objectives are to presents two performances to each of the Cree communities in Eeyou Istchee, first performance for the general public and the second performance will be for the students.
The tour date of the theatrical production, Mind’s Eye, as follows;
March 1 & 3 Whapmagoostui (Premier)
March 4-5 Chisasibi
March 6-7 Wemindji
March 8 & 10 Eastmain
March 11-12 Waskaganish
March 13-14 Nemaska
March 16-17 Mistissini
March 18-19 Waswanipi
March 20-21 Oujé-Bougoumou
March 25 Ambassador’s Gala (Oujé-Bougoumou)
We see this production as a way to ensure that the treasured stories of our Elders, and the knowledge that they have to share, continues to be passed on from generation to generation. Aanischaaukamikw holds this as one of our most sacred obligations as we strive to work in new and innovative ways. We are grateful to the Elders of Whapmagoostui and to Emily Masty and Susan Marshall for the work they have done in order to record these stories. Mind’s Eye is an enormous achievement in maintaining our culture’s rich traditions, and we hope that this theatrical production will showcase the contribution that the book has made.
ACCI is looking forward to presenting our theatrical production for each community. ACCI is extremely excited about this project and opportunity it has provided to collaborate with the Cree Nation of Whapmagoostui in order to celebrate the stories of our ancestors.
