Let us tell you a story… 💜
Join Gwaandak Theatre for our annual Indigenous Summer Play Readings! This Season, we are proud to be presenting two scripts that are new to the Yukon: The Spirit of the Valley by Frank Henry Kaash Katasse and Jordan by Yvette Nolan, with presentations in Whitehorse, Dawson City, and Haines Junction.
This annual summer tour creates opportunities for emerging theatre artists, promotes stronger community connections, and showcases both new and returning Indigenous scripts to local audiences. We invite you to experience these stories with us!
---
Sunday July 13th - 5:30PM Reading Start / 5PM Doors - The Spirit of the Valley & Jordan
Dënäkär Zho / KIAC Ballroom
Dawson City YT
Free tickets will be available at the Dënäkär Zho / KIAC Ballroom when doors open at 5:00PM prior to the start of the readings at 5:30PM. Donations to KIAC will be accepted.
Both scripts will be read at this event, with a short intermission in-between.
---
*Stay tuned for dates & times of encore radio presentations
of both scripts on CFYT 106.9FM, subject to recording quality. Please follow KIAC and CFYT 106.9FM for updates!
---
The Spirit of the Valley
Written by Frank Henry Kaash Katasse
Directed by Isabelle Katoogoo James-Walker
On a family vacation to their cabin nestled in the beautiful wilderness of Alaska, Tlingit twins Kaash and Shaa find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime! Suddenly separated from their family and from each other, they have to figure out how to reunite and above all, how to save the valley that they love so dearly. Join these clever kids on their journey as they face ferocious Wolves, rap battle the fast-talking Raven, reason with the dramatic Bear, and search for the elusive Spirit of the Valley. This show is fun for the whole family and asks the important question, “What can you do to protect the magnificent land and nature that surrounds you?”
This play was developed as the "Playwright in Residence" at La Jolla Playhouse and had itʼs World Premiere with Perseverance Theatre.
Ages 6+
~60 Minutes
---
Jordan
Written by Yvette Nolan
Directed by Keira Ash
Jordan is a play that depicts Jordan River Anderson as a superhero. Awakening in a hospital, Jordan discovers newfound abilities to speak and move, guided by his spirit bear companion, Maskwa. The story addresses the healthcare challenges faced by Indigenous children, highlighting the significance of Jordan’s Principle in ensuring equal healthcare for First Nations youth. Jordan represents hope and resilience, reflecting the broader struggle for justice within Indigenous communities.
This play was created by an Indigenous-led team, with the blessing of Jordan River Anderson’s family.
Ages 6+
~60 Minutes
---
Thank you to the Klondike Institute of Art and Culture (KIAC) for presenting these readings!
ISPR 2025 is funded by The Government of Yukon,
Canada Council for the Arts & The City of Whitehorse.
For a full list of sponsors and supporters, including other presenting organizations, or to find out more about the creative team, please visit: gwaandaktheatre.ca/indigenous-summer-play-readings-2025
You may also like the following events from Gwaandak Theatre:
Also check out other
Arts events in Dawson City,
Theatre events in Dawson City,
Nonprofit events in Dawson City.
