RETURN HOME
Theatre Centre Mainspace (1115 Queen West)
Rating: NNNN
Aug 9 at 9:15, Aug 11 at 4:30 pm, Aug 12 at 7 pm, Aug 13 at 4:30 pm, Aug 16 at 12:30 pm. 1-888-328-8384, summerworks.ca.
This thoughtful exploration of different experiences of colonialism and oppression brings together two separate yet ultimately complimentary stories: those of Maria (Émilie Monnet), an Anishinaabe woman from Quebec, and Leila (Dima Alansari), a Palestinian woman born in exile, now living in Canada.
Using a mixture of short scenes, monologues, movement and music from both cultures, the plot follows the pair from an awkward and prickly first encounter at a Free Palestine rally in Vancouver, to a budding friendship and mutual understanding of each other’s history, culture and struggles.
The different elements work well together, blending education about the loss of land and rights for indigenous people in both Canada and Palestine with strong storytelling about the characters and their families. There’s a healthy dose of humour, and some of the most powerful moments are well-choreographed dance breaks accompanied by music performed live on an array of traditional instruments.
