The Trial of Louis Riel returns to the stage at the RCMP Heritage Centre
After a year of cancelled live performances, the RCMP has brought ‘The Trial of Louis Riel’ back to the stage.
The RCMP Heritage Centre hosted an opening night gala on Thursday in celebration of the play.
“This is the 55th anniversary of the production,” said Tara Robinson, CEO of the Regina RCMP Heritage Centre. “ [It’s] the longest running historical drama in North America.”
The play takes audiences through the trial of Métis political leader Louis Riel. Born in 1844, Riel is most famously known for leading the Red River and North-West resistances against the Canadian government. Riel was tried for treason in Regina and executed in 1885.
“The story of Louis Riel is part of our history, and the repercussions of that history reverberate today,” said Lieutenant-Governor Russ Mirasty.
“Many Métis people have struggled to discover and reclaim their identity and to understand their own history.”
The play showcases Riel during his trial in 1885, but also acts as a tool for coming together today.
“Understanding who we are, understanding our history but also our shared history,” said Mirasty. “That understanding leads to strong relationships. And relationships lead to possibilities for all of us”
Mirasty said moving forward, working together is the key to reconciliation.
“One must remember that it’s not about blame,” said Mirasty. “You and we did not create the government policies that led to the Indian act and residential schools. But it is part of our collective history and we can’t deny that.”
Glen McCallum, president of Métis Nation—Saskatchewan, said he is happy to have a play showcase an important time and leader in Canada’s history.
“We have to start embracing our history, but most important, embrace the leaders that are trying to make a difference,” said McCallum.
Audiences can also expect a unique twist as part of the performance. Audience members will be able to participate in the performance, with some being selected to be up on stage with the actors.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.