The opera scene in Toronto has been graced with several world premieres over the past year or so, and Unsettled Score’s Canoe is the latest in this impressive group. Canoe’s Libretto and story was written by Dr. Spy Dénommé-Welch, as well as being co-composed by Dénommé-Welch and Catherine Magowan. Produced in collaboration with Native Earth Performing Arts, The Toronto Consort, and Theatre Passe Muraille, Co-directed by Dénommé-Welch and Dr. Moynan King, Canoe is an inspiring opera about the creation of the Brother Spirits and their journey to the Eastern Door. A beautiful score, impressive performances, and story-oriented presentation make Canoe an absolute must-see event.

Canoe begins with the creation of the Brother Spirits by Debaajimod, the storyteller. She places these warrior spirits into two women, sisters Gladys and Constance. Throughout the story we learn Gladys’ struggles at the Residential Schools, and Constance’s life at home with her family in her sister’s absence. Canoe addresses a great deal of difficult subject matter with grace and understanding without shying away from the harsh realities. The second act features incredible moments of magical-realism, bringing Canoe to a spectacular conclusion. This opera is riveting, funny, moving, and daring all in one beautiful performance.

Traditionally, opera sets and costumes are opulent and grand; but Canoe isn’t your traditional opera! For Canoe, Lindy Kinoshameg has designed a very simple set, primarily consisting of trees and stumps, and yet it’s this simplicity which allows us to focus on the story and performances we’re witnessing. Sherri Hay’s costumes illuminate the characters perfectly, while allowing them to move through Montana Summers’ choreography with ease. The design embodies beauty in simplicity, and adds to the unique experience of this Indigenous Opera.

I thought it was a wonderful addition to have the chamber orchestra on stage with the performers. Lead by co-composer Catherine Magowan, the five piece ensemble had some of the most unique instruments I’ve seen on stage. Playing the lute and therobo (look this instrument up, it’s impressive) is Benjamin Stein, on the recorders is Alison Melville, the violin is played by Kathleen Kajioka, the cello is played by Margaret Jordan-Gay, and finally on the harpsichord is Paul Jenkins. This talented group fills the room with the most beautiful music, and creates the perfect ambiance for Canoe to come to life.

The all-indigenous cast of Canoe is small but so very mighty. Michelle Lafferty’s voice is stunning; the high notes she was able to hit were astounding. You can see the joy she takes in playing Debaajimod in every moment she’s on stage. Conlin Delbaere-Sawchuk truly gives his all as Tree Spirit. His voice is a perfect compliment to his co-stars, and while he starts the story off very very still, he soon has the most dynamic movement sections of the piece. Nicole Joy-Fraser is stunning in everything she does. In Canoe, she plays Gladys, sister who is taken away from her family to a Residential School. Her performance is masterfully done, handling these beautiful songs and tough subject matter with an elegance I look forward to seeing every time she’s on stage. Playing her sister Constance is Kristine Dandavino, who has another awe-inspiring operatic voice. Dandavino is a perfect foil for Joy-Fraser, and you could feel her innocence and heartbreak radiating throughout the performance.

Put your canoe in the water and make sure you get out to see Canoe. There’s only one change left on September 16th so make sure you get your tickets ASAP! You won’t want to miss being one of the first to witness this world premiere opera! For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.nativeearth.ca/shows/canoe/

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(L-R): “Gladys” Nicole Joy-Fraser, “Debaajimod” Michelle Lafferty, “Tree Spirit” Conlin Delbaere-Sawchuk, “Constance” Kristine Dandavino

Photographer credit Kaytee Dalton

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