In late 2010, TryLight Theatre Co. began developing the first Living History Project. Through this theatre development project, TryLight sought to develop skills in theatre arts for local students, as well as life skills such as self-confidence, time management, and organizational skills. The focus of the project was on developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s shared history, recognizing that such a venture could enhance the community’s capacity for cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.
TryLight established a collaborative working relationship with the Lake of the Woods Museum, and several short vignettes were developed and staged within the Museum during the summer 2011. Additionally, a historical street theatre walking tour led audiences from the Museum, along Main Street, with student actors depicting scenes from Kenora’s history.
In 2012, TryLight Theatre Co. developed a second phase of The Living History Project, entitled “Land/River/Water”. This involved a re-enactment of stories related to water gathered from settler, First Nation and Métis storytellers, performed by student actors in the outdoor courtyard at the Museum during the summer of 2012.
In 2013, CGRF again provided funding to TryLight to continue The Living History Project, extending its reach to broader audiences through its daily performances on the TryLight Theatre stage, and at venues throughout Treaty 3.
The final reports from the two seasons are here:
Living History Project Report 2012
Trylight Theatre Final Report 2013
2012 Living History Project
2013 Living History Project
