NEOINDIGENA
“The studio looked eerily like an animal graveyard. Deer, elk and moose antlers were strewn across the floor. A large wooden archway of interwoven branches loomed skeletally in a corner, one of a number of what Smith describes as portals to the Skyworld, Earthworld and Underworld her character will encounter in a journey of personal transformation.” - Michael Crabb, The Star
A solo call for connection, transformation and healing NeoIndigenA is a performance of the soul exploring our relationship to all living entities and elements. It is transcendent and primordial fiercely cycling through sacred portals between Skyworld, Earthworld and Underworld. Santee Smith’s solo journey encompasses past, present, future in one body and space, awakening ancient ways of knowing and spiritual renewal. NeoIndigenA searches for sacred pathways of human connection to self and universe. To prepare for NeoIndigenA, Artistic Director Santee Smith received solo mentorship with Margie Gillis, Charles Koroneho, Zab Maboungou and Alejandro Ronceria. The premiere occurred at the Enwave Theatre, Harbourfront Centre as a part of the NextSteps dance series 2013/14.
Nominated for:
Created and produced by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre Artistic
Director/Choreographer/Concept/Performance: Santee Smith
Lighting Design: Arun Srinivasan
Costume Design: Elaine Redding, Santee Smith
Composition/Score Arrangement/Viola: Jesse Zubob
Composition: Cris Derksen, Adrian Harjo, Michael Red Vocals: Tanya Tagaq, Nelson Tagoona
Set Construction: Tim Hill
Production Sponsors
Canada Council for the Arts; Ontario Arts Council; Toronto Arts Council; Department of Canadian Heritage and Miziwe Biik Employment and Training. Thanks also to NeoIndigenA’s production sponsors: Harboufront Centre; K.M. Hunter Foundation; Jerry Montour & Family and anonymous donors.