The Ecstasy Of Rita Joe

Synopsis

Rita Joe is a Native girl who leaves the reservation for the city, only to die on skid row as a victim of white men’s violence and paternalistic attitudes towards First Nations peoples.

As perhaps the best-known contemporary Canadian play and a poetic drama of enormous theatrical power, <i>The Ecstasy of Rita Joe</i> had a major influence in awakening consciousness to the “Indian problem” both in whites and Natives themselves.

Cast of five women and 15 men.

With a preface by Chief Dan George.

<i>The Ecstasy of Rita Joe</i> premiered November 23, 1967 at the Vancouver Playhouse.