Written By Mara McEwin
Choreographed By Emily Bunning
Music Composition by Roderick Jackson & Ulali
Running Time: 45 Minutes
Number of Performers: 2 Actors, 3 Dancers, & 1 Live Percussionist

Coyote’s Dance envelops the culture and story of Coyote, whose exploits are recounted among many North American Indian Nations. Audiences follow coyote, who is both clown and teacher, on a humorous journey of deceit and adventure. Coyote’s Dance, with music by Ulali and Roderick Jackson, is performed in native influenced costumes, headdresses and a lively mixture of movement styles. The dance-play expresses the remarkable vitality of the cultures to which these stories belong. Coyote’s Dance is excellent for all ages, and can be presented with additional workshops that include: drumming, storytelling and dance.

WHAT THE PRESS IS SAYING

“Our children need nurturing good stories.  Awareness of the existence of indigenous cultures of the American West, rich with oral tradition based on respect for  our interdependence with the natural world, is extremely helpful to our children who often live removed from  direct knowledge of ancestors and nature and diversity. In the traditional world, stories such as these tales would have more specific cultural, and often secret meanings shared among a People.  However, their inherent wisdom, humor, compassion and fundamental teachings are relevant to everyone; because wisdom is based on insight and appreciation. I am so moved by the gathering of these tales, adapted respectfully from four native sources that make up Coyote’s Dance.   I am so moved by the generosity of traditional peoples who share what they can of their culture for the benefit of all children. My hope is that as many children as possible experience the joy and meaning of this wonderful theater event.   In these deeply troubling times we need to expose our children to dynamic experiences of happiness, diversity and hope.”
-Laura Simms, Storyteller, Author, Humanitarian
www.laurasimms.com

“In the captivating Coyote’s Dance, an interactive spectacle, the proud, clever coyote of American Indian Legend, is being imaginatively incarnated by Treehouse Shakers.”
-Laurel Graeber, New York Times