Brave Rock himself played the role of Napi, the trickster, in
the play which also features a delightfully sadistic Satan and a
somewhat upbeat Jesus. The play is intended to be a spiritual look
at a new-found struggle among the reserve's young people, says
Brave Rock.
"Jesus, in the play, represents morality and
the proper virtues at the heart of every human being. Satan, on
the other hand, represents our social issues, identity crisis,
civil disobedience, and hate. Napi is the spirit behind our
pride."
He admits there is violence and profanity in it, but says it is
aimed at Native high school youths and adults, not elementary
school students.
Although Kainai High School Principal Richard Fox was offended
by the use of profanity in the play, he allows Big Head the
freedom to put on plays like The Good, The Bad and the Indians.
Fox calls it an example of a new-found freedom of expression by
young Native playwrights. He says it is always a challenge
for reserve schools to give all students a well-rounded education,
which includes not only sports and extracurricular activities and
the education side, but also a cultural and language component.
Big Head has attracted many students to her drama classes. Last
year 25 students were involved as actors, set designers, writers,
and with lighting, sound, and costumes. As a result of the success
of the program she no longer has to justify funding for drama.
"They see what it has done for the kids," she says.
"I've seen kids who used to walk around with their heads
down, with no self-esteem, discover themselves through
drama."
The drama group had planned to spend 11 days in England in July,
where they were to see a Shakespearean play and visit the bard's
grave and birthplace. They also hoped to
perform Brave Rock's play.
Heritage Community Foundation Presents
