Overview
Synopsis
This semi-autobiographical play one-man play explores a story of hidden love between two gay teenage boys from neighboring reservations. Mike, a hockey player, and Jake, a dancer, take notice of each other at the Kenora Shoppers Mall. The two boys connect instantly, but are scared to act on their feelings. As the story is told through the shapeshifitng Nanabush, Agokwe (pronounced ‘agoo-kway’) explores the joys and heartbreaks of growing up as a young boy, marginalized by race, gender, and sexual orientation within a small community.
Agokwe is an Anishinaabe word that roughly translates to “two-spirited”, indicating that someone has both a male spirit and a female spirit inside of them. The original production won six Dora Mavor Moore Awards in 2009, including the award for Outstanding New Play, Outstanding Production, Outstanding Performance, and Outstanding Direction.
Show Information
Characters
Character Portrayals
See StageAgent members who have performed roles in Agokwe.
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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.
Prejudice or discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals, sometimes explored as a theme in dramatic works. This term plays a vital role in understanding theatrical structure and is commonly encountered in stagecraft or performance settings.
Refers to the original peoples of a region; their performance traditions often include ritual, storytelling, and dance.
A short play presented in a single act without intermission, ideal for festivals, student productions, or concise storytelling.
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Guide Written By:
Emma Houlahan
Canadian vocalist and actor now based in London.