Preview: Agokwe

From the Buddies in Bad Times Press Release -

Waawaate Fobister returns to Toronto with his lauded story of gay love on the rez. Fobister is a unique voice in the Canadian cultural landscape. Once a shy gay youth raised on the Grassy Narrows First Nation reserve, Fobister has emerged as a star on the national theatre scene.

Since his 2008 debut at Buddies, Fobister has written a new play, starred in productions across Canada (including the National Arts Centre), lectured at Ted-X, and choreographed for theatre and TV. Agokwe is the tragic story of unrequited love between two teenage boys from neighbouring reserves. Brave and revealing, this spectacular one-man show speaks to homophobia, social isolation and the lost traditions of the Anishnaabe.

The Vancouver Courier writes, “In the struggle against homophobia, every teenager in town should see this [show]. Make that everyone in town.”

Agokwe brings a message of hope and survival in a time when the topic of gay-teen suicide prevails in conversations and in headlines. Agokwe was originally created through Buddies’ Queer Youth Arts Program and presented as part of the Buddies 2008-09 Season. That production garnered 6 Dora Mavor Moore Awards, including Outstanding New Play, Production of a Play, Direction and Performance. With support from the National Arts Center, Agokwe has developed even further into a remarkable, well-crafted piece of theatre and its creator, Waawaate Fobister, has matured into one of Canada’s most important First Nations performers.

EAP is going to see Agokwe this Saturday evening and we are super excited. This is one of the most talked about shows of the Buddies season. Almost everything Justin or I have seen this season at Buddies has been amazing, and I expect this show will continue that trend. As the closing work for the 2010-11 season I am sure it will be fantastic, and should not be missed.

Agokwe runs until May 15th. Click the header for ticket information.