PRESS RELEASE
Francophone Indigenous Theatre Takes the Spotlight in the Quartier des Spectacles This Fall
Montreal, August 19, 2025 — The Quartier des Spectacles Partnership and Ondinnok, in collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada, present YAWENDA’, a major exhibition inspired by the history of French-language Indigenous theatre in Quebec. This original photographic exhibit celebrates 40 years of great theatre and the impressive contributions of Indigenous artists to Quebec’s cultural landscape. On the Promenade des Artistes from September 11 to November 9 this year, discover the artists and compelling themes seen in theatrical productions that tell unforgettable stories and forge enduring bonds.
40 Years of Exceptionnal Indigenious Theatre
Presented in the Quartier des Spectacles, where Ondinnok produced a play for the first time in 1985, during the FTA, this outdoor exhibition is a series of photographs complemented by a video projection and a costume exhibit in the Espace ONF.
The show explores the evolution of activist Indigenous theatre, from its legendary origins with Ondinnok, a pioneering company founded by Yves Sioui Durand, Catherine Joncas and the late John Blondin, now led by artistic director Dave Jenniss, to the renaissance of Indigenous cultures that has brought us the contemporary voices of companies such as Onishka, led by Émilie Monnet; Menuentakuan, founded by Charles Bender, Marco Collin and Xavier Huard; and Production AUEN, led by Soleil Launière. Each contributes their own voice, language and perspective to the exhibition’s account of the history of Indigenous theatre in Quebec.
In seven tableaux, YAWENDA’ presents the unique creative visions and powerful themes of Indigenous theatre, highlighting key moments and landmark works. Testimonials, archival photos, videos, costumes and projections come together in a sensitive living portrait—a testament to an ongoing dialogue between memory and creativity. A soundtrack by Étienne Thibault accompanies the exhibition.
Memories in Image
Alongside the exhibition, a video projection called Woli kpotenom – purification by Mélanie O’Bomsawin, based on an original concept by Dave Jenniss, will be screened daily on the façade of UQAM’s Pavillon Président-Kennedy. The projection explores the almost spiritual relationship between a city, its people and the need for regeneration. Montreal is presented as a living, constantly changing space built on a foundation of memory, presence and hope in a purification process.
The public can also admire costumes from Xajoj Tun Rabinal Achi, a landmark Ondinnok play from 2010. The wardrobe items will be exhibited in the Espace ONF, located in the NFB building. An NFB documentary about Yves Sioui Durand, one of the founders of Ondinnok, will also be shown.
Media Invitation
Members of the media are invited to attend the opening of YAWENDA’ on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 5 p.m. The event takes place on the Promenade des Artistes, and will include the creative team and partners. It concludes in the Espace ONF, completing a tour of the exhibition. Refreshments will be served.
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