Showcasing Indigenous voices

Native Earth Performing Arts (NEPA) is Canada’s oldest professional Indigenous theatre company. They are located inside the Daniels Spectrum building in Regent Park and are hosting their 42nd season. The company is dedicated to creating and showcasing artistic expressions of the Indigenous experience in Canada.

A commitment to Indigenous art

The stories produced at NEPA are rooted in the Indigenous experience. They are shaped by conversations with artists. The stories are also influenced by what’s happening in Indigenous communities across Canada. “We are constantly talking to the artists, learning about what they are interested in telling people and the stories they want to share,” said Joelle Peters, NEPA’s Artistic Director.

Joelle is from the Walpole Island First Nation in Southwestern Ontario. She has been with NEPA for eight years. A lifelong artist, she is known for her work as an actor, playwright, and storyteller. She oversees the production and storytelling at NEPA with Managing Director, Himanshu Sitlani. Originally from India, Himanshu moved to Toronto in 2010 and has been with NEPA for several years. He has a rich background in theatre, having worked as an actor, stage manager, and sound designer. 

NEPA presents a wide range of performances that give audiences an opportunity to learn about and connect with Indigenous culture on a deeper level. For example, Frances Končan uses satire in her comedy “Women of the Fur Trade” to talk about Indigenous history and Louis Riel. In another play, “What We Carry”, Barbara Diabo uses traditional hoop dancing to tell her personal story as a matriarch in her community. “These stories need to be showcased, not just in Toronto but across the country,” said Himanshu.

Supporting artists big and small

On top of producing shows, NEPA is also dedicated to supporting artists at all stages of their careers. They help emerging artists looking to transition from actor to writer as well as veteran producers looking to learn more about directing. NEPA helps jumpstart journeys with workshops, residencies, and professional development. “It’s incredible to work with and uplift Indigenous artists, helping them tell their stories” said Joelle.

NEPA actively creates funding opportunities for Indigenous creators. This allows artists to focus on their work without financial stress so that diverse Indigenous stories continue to be told. “40 Seeds for 40 Seasons” is an initiative that gave 40 Indigenous artists $4,000 for creative projects, with no pressure for specific outcomes. They also offer mentorship programs pairing emerging artists with experienced professionals to help their stories shine. These relationships help young artists build skills and a support network in the industry.

Upcoming season at NEPA

“This season, we are honoured to present works that speak to self-expression and challenging expectations,” said Joelle. “The artists we’re working with throughout 2024-2025 are exploring intersectionality within dance, theatre, and lived experiences.” 

NEPA celebrated the start of their 2024 to 2025 theatre season with a community fire and gathering. The first performances of the season debuted during “Weesageechak Beings to Dance 37,” their Annual Development Festival of Indigenous Work. These performances ran from November 21 to December 1. They featured over 13 projects at their Aki studio in Regent Park and included talent from Toronto and across Canada. 

Native Earth Performing Arts is more than just a theatre company. It is a source of hope and support for Indigenous artists. By continuing to uplift Indigenous voices, NEPA demonstrates how art can foster understanding and connection among communities.

For those interested in going to a performance, NEPA offers discounted tickets to residents of Regent Park. They also offer a sliding scale for all ticket prices. “Just come out and watch,” said Himanshu. “The missing piece is you.”