Overview
Synopsis
Coyote City is the first in Daniel David Moses’ series of four City Plays. It follows the journey of one First Nations family as they travel between a world of spiritual traditions and the greedy urban landscape of the big city. When Lena receives a phone call from her dead boyfriend, Johnny, she leaves her reserve and heads to the city in hot pursuit of her lost lover. Closely following behind her are her younger sister, Boo, her mother, and a minister with a drink problem. Out of their comfort zone in the city, the group is forced to confront their demons, whether that be alcohol, spiritual belief, or the true state of their family relationships. The play opens with a ghost, but it also ends with a new one. Coyote City is funny, moving, mysterious, and tragic, all at the same time.
Show Information
Context
Note: This play was written in 1988 and therefore refers to Indigenous characters as ‘Indians’, which was common language at the time. Daniel David Moses addresses this in his introductory interview to the 2017 edition of the play.
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Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in Coyote City.
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Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
Aboriginal refers to the Indigenous peoples of Australia, encompassing diverse nations, languages, and traditions. Aboriginal theatre often highlights oral storytelling, dance, and music as vital cultural expressions. Modern Aboriginal drama explores identity, history, and the impact of colonization.
Indigenous peoples of Canada, whose oral storytelling and ceremonial practices contribute richly to contemporary theatre.
Refers to the original peoples of a region; their performance traditions often include ritual, storytelling, and dance.
Quizzes
Guide Written By:
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher