This year, the Piindigen Program is dedicated to exploring the power of storytelling, inviting participants to dive into their creative curiosities and transform ideas into compelling theatrical performances. Designed as a two-phase experience, the program begins with weekly workshops led by industry professionals, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, who introduce diverse approaches to storytelling, performance, and theatrical techniques. In the second phase, participants enter a creative incubator led by Danik McAfee and Carly Billings, where they develop original performance pieces, either individually or collaboratively, based on their artistic vision. The program culminates in a public showcase as part of the 2025 Brave New Work Festival, providing an exciting platform to share their work with the community.

Workshop Series  

– Welcome and Community Building – Phil Davis  

– Storytelling through Costume and Set Design – Brandon Kleiman  

– Playwriting – Steven Gallagher  

– The 7 Steps of the Creative Process – Donna-Michelle St. Bernard 

– Voice and Text through Performance – Rebecca Cuddy

– Hand Drum and Songwriting – Nicole Joy Fraser  

– Telling Stories through Movement and Individuality – Raymond “RJ” Johnson-Brown