The Unnatural and Accidental Women: A Production History
The Unnatural and Accidental Women is a theatrical work that has seen several significant stagings across Canada, evolving from its early premieres to becoming a landmark presentation for national indigenous arts institutions.
Key Facts
- Premiere: November 2, 2000, at the Firehall Arts Centre in Vancouver.
- Notable Producers: Native Earth Performing Arts and the National Arts Centre (NAC).
- Key Cast: PJ Prudat (Rebecca) and Monique Mojica (Aunt Shadie).
- Significant Milestone: Served as the first presentation of the NAC's Indigenous Theatre department in 2019.
Early Productions and Development
The play first reached audiences on November 2, 2000, debuting at the Firehall Arts Centre in Vancouver. This initial run lasted until November 25, establishing the work's presence in the Western Canadian arts scene.
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Following its premiere, the production was staged by Native Earth Performing Arts—a company dedicated to the development of Indigenous theatre—at the Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. This production ran from November 18 to December 5, 2004.
The National Arts Centre Presentation
In 2019, the play achieved a major milestone when it was staged by the National Arts Centre (NAC). This production was particularly significant as it marked the first presentation of the NAC's Indigenous Theatre department.
Directed by Muriel Miguel, the 2019 production featured PJ Prudat in the role of Rebecca and Monique Mojica as Aunt Shadie. Notably, this production marked the second time that Mojica portrayed the character of Aunt Shadie.
The NAC production featured a diverse ensemble cast, including Colleen Winton, Yolanda Bonnell, Columpa C. Bobb, Cheri Maracle, Nimikii Couchie-Waukey, Lisa Cromarty, Pierre Brault, Olivier Lamarche, Jenifer Brousseau, Soni Moreno, and Kelsey Wavey.
Production Summary
| Year | Venue/Producer | Location | Key Personnel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Firehall Arts Centre | Vancouver | Premiere Cast |
| 2004 | Native Earth Performing Arts / Buddies in Bad Times | Toronto | Native Earth Ensemble |
| 2019 | National Arts Centre (NAC) | Ottawa | Dir. Muriel Miguel |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did The Unnatural and Accidental Women first premiere?
The play premiered on November 2, 2000, at the Firehall Arts Centre in Vancouver.
Which organization produced the play in 2004?
Native Earth Performing Arts produced the play at the Buddies in Bad Times Theatre from November 18 to December 5, 2004.
What was the significance of the 2019 NAC production?
The 2019 production was the first presentation of the National Arts Centre's (NAC) Indigenous Theatre department.
Who played the role of Aunt Shadie in the 2019 production?
Monique Mojica played Aunt Shadie; this was the second time she had performed this specific role.
Who directed the National Arts Centre production?
The 2019 NAC production was directed by Muriel Miguel.