The Noose

Hosted By: Abigail W.

Project For Ages: 20 to 60 Years Old.

Project Category: Theatre

Project Summary:

This subsidized program brings a powerful theatrical experience to marginalized and disenfranchised youth across Canada. Participants will have the opportunity to watch a thought-provoking play that explores crucial themes of immigrant and newcomer mental health, depression, and suicide ideation. Following the performance, the playwright will facilitate in-depth, healthy conversations within participating organizations. These guided discussions will delve into mental health awareness, the healing power of arts and theatre, and the unique challenges faced by immigrant and newcomer communities. By combining accessible cultural experiences with open dialogue, this program aims to foster understanding, promote mental health awareness, and empower youth to engage with these vital topics through the lens of theatre.

Addressing Community Needs

Now more than ever, Haitian stories need to be on stage. We’re witnessing among the worst political instability, economic unrest, and ongoing Haitian migration crisis seen in a decade. “The Noose” is the most relevant Haitian play to be premiering anywhere in the world at a time like this, and it’s happening in Canada, right here in Toronto. This is a topical play for a topical time in Haiti. “The Noose” is a timely play that captures characters embodying social, economic, political, and cultural contradictions, echoing the struggles Haiti still faces today. We’re witnessing an influx of Haitian refugees and immigrants in both Canada and the United States. As the producer and director, my vision is to tell the story of “The Noose” uniquely portraying the livelihoods of Haitian immigrants and migrants living in exile. This is the angle from which I’m examining “The Noose”: the struggles to live the American dream vs. struggles to live the Haitiian dream. The revival of “The Noose” in Toronto will be a new and modernized retelling of the Haitian classic that’s relevant to Canada.