Josh Languedoc returns for his second consecutive Weesageechak Begins to Dance with Starlight Journey. Languedoc believes the festival will help move the piece towards production by sharing the story and receiving feedback from the audience and the Indigenous community.
Starlight Journey takes us on a family’s journey in search of answers to their young son’s mysterious death.
“…how can we as a society move past hatred and inequality towards one another?”
“What inspired me to write this piece was learning about Starlight Tours—from the practice of police officers picking up Indigenous folk, driving them to remote locations and forcing them to walk home. This has led to many controversies around race and the use of power by law enforcement.”
Through Starlight Journey, Languedoc wishes to shine a light on voices which have been lost, and to ignite discussions around the lives lost. “I want my play to have audiences question their own sense of humanity – how would they feel if they lost a family member to a Starlight Tour? How would this act affect their community? How would they deal with loss and grief? And most importantly, how can we as a society move past hatred towards one another?”
Make sure to catch Languedoc’s new work on Saturday, November 18th.
More from Josh Languedoc
Where do you find your inspiration for your creative work?
The land. As I reconnect to my Indigenous roots, I rely less on people for inspiration, and turn to nature. It is full of wonder and wisdom. My art features a balance of nature and humanity trying to co-exist together.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Trust the universe. It bestows gifts upon us if we are willing to listen.
What are your thoughts on addressing political topics through Indigenous art?
I think it’s very beneficial, but doesn’t have to be a part of every project. Some projects can absolutely take a stand and address the political tensions associated with the Indigenous peoples. However, I see extreme value in honouring our storytelling for the purpose of community engagement.
What does Indigenous art mean to you?
Reclamation. Thanks to the wonderful movement across Canada, Indigenous Art is bringing back what was long forgotten. I see Indigenous Art as a way to celebrate and honour those who are marginalized. I see it as a way to honour traditions, storytelling and language that has survived near-genocide.
What is coming up next for you?
I will be continuing to write my play with the support of Workshop West Playwrights Theatre. I am also developing four Indigenous theatre projects as part of my residency with Workshop West.
Catch Josh Languedoc’s Starlight Journey on
Friday, November 18th @ 7:30pm
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