›› Kate Wallace

It has long been a dream to put on a ­theatrical play at George Jay School—but it hasn’t been an easy task. It’s taken quite a bit of work to connect with families from around the neighbourhood—and around the world—as well as the First Nations families, who make up 30 percent of our school population, given the language and cultural barriers. But with the help of the Belfry Theatre and with permission from the creator of the Raven Tales books and TV show, we have now created a unique play based on a First Nations story called The Flood.

The creation of a new play has ignited both school parents and the business ­community who are excited and eager to share and help. The Flood is a play that speaks to many cultures, as it is a folk tale where the smallest of us—the children—are not heard at first but with clever ­thinking actually save the day. Who doesn’t like a story where the hero is the underdog?

With The Flood, we have a story ­originating from First Nations culture now transformed into a play by a Belfry ­Theatre artist, using set pieces borrowed from Pacific Opera Victoria, and props found and built by our teachers and ­parents. The costumes will be traditional capes designed and made by hand by parents, under the direction of designer Jennifer Johnson, who is also a parent in our school.

We also have a First Nations choreographer and drummer working with the kids. The children in the play have been ­rehearsing on their lunch breaks twice a week for over a month now. There are 50 kids in the play, some with lines, others singing in the chorus. Children who are not directly involved onstage have the opportunity to help paint props and make costumes, ensuring that everyone has a hand in creating our show.

Please check out our ad in this issue of the Vibe for ticket information and bring your family on Wednesday, June 18. The Flood is ­theatre for everyone!