The startling true story of Esther Brandeau, a woman from Jewish French Basque country, who arrives in 18th Century Quebec City disguised as a Christian male labourer. She is outed on both counts and brought before the authorities upon arrival. Brandeau is said to be the first Jewish person to set foot in what is now known as Canada.
In this beautifully poetic and moving multi-media performance, Toronto spoken word artist Heather Hermant brings to life the historical archives that illustrate Brandeau’s journey with haunting video installations, breathtaking live music and a powerful performance. A bold, little-known Canadian foundation tale by about displacement, prejudice & identity.
The Firehall Theatre Society
The Firehall first opened ins doors February 25, 1982 with a performance by Axis Theatre, who managed the theatre at that time. The Firehall Theatre Society was incorporated in 1983 and in 1985 established itself as one of the first theatre companies to incorporate aboriginal and culturally diverse artists within its practice.
The company is committed to operating an arts centre in Vancouver’s poorest neighbourhood, to ensuring residents have access to professional artistic experiences and that local community arts projects also benefit from the use of our play development skills, our technical and production resources, and our studio and performance space.
The building the Firehall calls home was built in 1906 and acted as Vancouver’s first fire station until the mid 1970s. Located in the historic heart of the city, the Firehall strives to produce and present work that highlights and supports Canada’s multiculturalism. As the first company focusing on Canadian work with this intent, the Firehall broke through social barriers and helped playwrights, actors, dancers, performers and producers of various cultural backgrounds present work to audiences across the country.
Over the past 30 years, led by Artistic Producer Donna Spencer, the Firehall Theatre Society has evolved into one of Canada’s most well respected cultural hubs.
With her interest in contemporary dance, Spencer also spearheaded the Dancing on the Edge Festival, which has grown to become Canada’s longest running dance festival, and became its own society in 1988.
For more information about this event please call us at 604-689-0926 or visit our website at www.firehallartscentre.ca
