THEY CARRY US
About/Overview
"They Carry Us” is a dance theater piece intended for family and young audiences. This work is deeply rooted in Blackfoot cosmologies, ways of knowing, and the essence dualities of two spirit people. Forgotten knowledge around how two-spirit people carried the survival of the Blackfoot people through ceremony and physical protection are unearthed. We are working closely with Blackfoot elders and Knowledge Keepers as we learn and develop this work in a culturally ethical space.
Important Dates
Workshop Showing: April 2026 Confirmed
We are looking for a premiere partner for late 2026.
Links
Video Rehearsal Footage May 2025
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g6rQadW1wFvvJ4w1COwh4_dKsnFCbPmF/view?usp=drive_link
Basic Information
Who is on tour?
4 dancers
1 tour manager
1 set technician
Sound/Music
Jessica Sparvier-Wells is the Sound Designer and composer.
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Sonny Ray Day Rider (Kainai/Blackfoot) will be composing sections of the piece,
Set Needs/Costume
The set is currently in development with Even Gilchrist
https://www.evengilchristdesign.com/
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We will be hiring a costume designer.
Elders/Knowledge Keepers
We are working with Dr Shawn Singer (Kainai) and our elders Rod Scout and Cindy Daniels as we continue to create this piece.
Tech Needs
We will be working with projections, bitmap LED hoops, and light. With additional grant money we are hoping to expand into projection mapping.
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We will require a scrim.
Dance Styles
This work is a contemprary dance piece that is informed by traditional dance practices. Hoop Dance will be in this piece.
Example of past choreography by Jessica McMann (Sparvier-Wells)
Contact
Like what you see? Get in touch to learn more.