Debajehmujig Theatre Group facts for kids
The Debajehmujig Storytellers is a special theatre group and arts organization. It is also known as Debahehmyjig Theatre Group, or simply Debaj. This group is based in the Wiikwemkoong First Nation on Manitoulin Island in Northern Ontario. What makes Debaj so unique? It is the longest-running Indigenous theatre group in all of North America!
The Story of Debajehmujig
The name Debajehmujig comes from two Indigenous languages: Ojibwe (debaajimoojig) and Cree (tepācimūcik). Both words mean "storytellers." This is a perfect name for a group that shares stories through plays and art!
The Debajehmujig Storytellers group started in 1984. It was founded by Shirley Cheechoo, Blake Debassige, and their friends. They began in M'Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island.
In 1989, the group moved to the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, which is also called Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. This is where they are still based today.
Debaj also has a special place called the Debajehmujig Creation Centre in Manitowaning. This is where they create new plays and art. Their main stage for performances is an outdoor stage. It is located in the old ruins of the Holy Cross Mission in Wiikwemkoong.
The group travels all across Canada to perform their plays. They do this through their Outreach program. The main reason the company was started was to give Indigenous young people a chance. They wanted youth to see themselves and their lives shown on stage. This means seeing characters, stories, and experiences that they could relate to.
