Odyssey Theatre / Arts Fair 2024 Rewind

This summer, we were transported to a realm of Myth, Lore and Stories of Wonder. Showcasing 67 extraordinary artists, our creative arts fair was a dazzling celebration of the magic of artistic creation and the power of sharing stories.

Erin Eldershaw; photo credit: Jillian Wright

Audiences were enchanted by a staged reading of Laurie Steven’s new play The Girl With No Hands. Inspired by a classic tale, the play explores the role of fantasy in our journey to find wholeness.

We were captivated by mesmerizing tales from around the world. Jacqui Du Toit transported us to Mama Africa with tales of the legendary trickster, Anansi the Spider. The ancient world of Norse mythology was brought to life by Ottawa Storytellers Johanna Kuyvenhoven, Marie Robertson and Anne Schmitz. Uchechi Ogbonna spoke life into captivating and traditional Nigerian folktales of creation and creatures.

We embarked on a sacred journey with Into the Circle Theatre, encountering some of Éire’s (Ireland’s) most ancient and prolific goddesses. Ottawa’s Indigenous musical storyteller, The Tennessee Cree, shared his stories through a blend of traditional and country folk music. Métis artist Suzanne Keeptwo shared a way of looking at life to find the wonder.

Dancers wove timeless legends into their every movement. Haiyan Dance Studio delighted with five dances based on Chinese legends, myth, and tales. Rathi Dance performed epic tales of Indian legend through Bharatanatyam, the oldest classical Indian Dance form. Indus Theatre and Kalavatee Dance shared a beautifully danced reinterpretation of a tale from the Mahabharata.

Our Young Company led us on a mythical adventure in their original play Heart’s Desire which explored how to move forward with hope in a world of struggle, war, inequity, and climate threat. The performance was brought to vibrant life with masks, puppets, and mythical creatures.

Workshops allowed guests to awaken their own creativity. Clelia Scala taught puppet design and creation, Jacqui Du Toit led South African mask creation, Laurie Steven provided guidance in creating and telling one’s own story, and Bougie Birch facilitated dreamcatcher creation.

Thank you to the sponsors, partners, donors, volunteers, artists, and audiences who breathed life into this creative adventure.