Debajehmujig Theatre Group facts for kids
The Debajehmujig Storytellers is a special theatre group from the First Nations community. People also call them the Debajehmujig Theatre Group, or just Debaj. They are based in the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. This is a unique place on Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario. Debaj is the oldest Indigenous theatre group in all of North America.
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The Story of Debajehmujig
The name Debajehmujig comes from two Indigenous languages. In Ojibwe, it is debaajimoojig. In Cree, it is tepācimūcik. Both of these words mean "storytellers." This name perfectly describes what the group does.
How Debajehmujig Started
The Debajehmujig Storytellers group began in 1984. It was founded by Shirley Cheechoo, Blake Debassige, and their friends. They started the group in M'Chigeeng First Nation, which is also on Manitoulin Island.
Where Debajehmujig Is Now
In 1989, the theatre group moved to the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve. This area is now known as the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. Besides their main location, they also have the Debajehmujig Creation Centre. This centre is in Manitowaning.
The group's main stage is very unique. It is an open-air stage located in the ruins of the Holy Cross Mission in Wiikwemkoong. Debajehmujig also travels all over Canada. They perform their plays through a special program called their Outreach program.
Why Debajehmujig Was Created
The main reason Debajehmujig was started was to help Indigenous youth. The founders wanted young people to see themselves and their lives on stage. They wanted them to connect with the characters, stories, and experiences shown in the plays. This helps young people feel proud and understood.
Important People from Debajehmujig
Many talented people have been part of the Debajehmujig Storytellers. Here are a few of them:
- Shirley Cheechoo — She was a founder of the group. She also worked as an actor, a writer for plays, and an artistic director.
- Tomson Highway — He is a famous playwright. He was also an actor and artistic director for the group in 1984 and 1985.
- Rene Highway — He was an actor with the group.
- Drew Hayden Taylor — He worked as an actor and a playwright for Debajehmujig.
