Punctuate Theatre’s Dora-Award winning production of First Métis Man of Odesa is back in Toronto, this time as part of Soulpepper Theatre Company’s current season. Directed by Lianna Makuch, this thrilling love story about writers and performers Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova is simultaneously a fascinating snapshot of their lives leading up to and during covid while also being a sweet love-letter to their son.

First Métis Man of Odesa details the globe-spanning love story of Matthew and Mariya: from meeting each other at an acting workshop in Kiev, to their correspondence, to finally getting to try dating in person (for a few weeks at a time, at least). As for all of us things changed in March of 2020, but Matthew and Mariya had no idea how dramatic of a change it was going to be for them. From being separated during the pandemic to Mariya’s longing for home once the occupation of Ukraine begins in 2022, First Métis Man of Odesa takes us on the full journey.

I enjoyed the intimacy that the Michael Young Theatre provides, as I was able to appreciate more of the details embedded into Daniela Masellis’ production design. I love how the birds in the corners of the set pieces look like the ones mentioned in the poem Matthew writes for Mariya; that poem is one of the highlights of the text for me, and to see it reflected in the set is wonderful. I also really appreciate Amelia Scott’s projection design; it adds a whole other element to the set and allows us to be transported to so many places, times, and feelings (even if it’s just to an On Route).

Matthew and Mariya give earnest, heartfelt performances; it’s truly a joy to watch them tell their story. While they are playing a sort of stage version of themselves, you can feel the honesty and truth in what they do. Matthew begins the show by saying that he’s not an actor, and yet has a quirky charm which makes him delightful. Mariya’s little nods and winks to the audience, along with her knowing and cheeky smile, show not only her talent but the softer side of her as well. As a married couple, their chemistry is totally on point, yet it’s the ebb and flow of the storytelling, the way the share the stage together, and the stories they choose to tell which give First Métis Man of Odesa it’s undeniable spark.

If you haven’t had a chance to experience First Métis Man of Odesa in person, I cannot recommend seeing this production enough. The intimate setting, incredible story, and dazzling performances make this a not-to-be-missed event. It runs at Soulpepper Theatre Company until May 19th. For more information and tickets, visit: https://www.soulpepper.ca/performances/firstmetisman

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Cover Photo: Mariya Khomutova and Matthew MacKenzie. Photo by Dahlia Katz

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You can also check out my review from the 2023 Theatre Centre production: https://aviewfromthebox.net/2023/04/04/punctuate-theatre-and-the-theatre-centres-first-metis-man-of-odesa/

You can also read my recent interview with Mariya here: https://aviewfromthebox.net/2024/05/07/stage-door-dialogues-mariya-khomutova-of-soulpepper-theatre-companys-produciton-of-punctuate-theatres-first-metis-man-of-odesa/

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