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
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
New analysis of Beethoven's hair reveals possible cause of mysterious ailments, scientists say
High levels of lead detected in authenticated locks of Ludwig van Beethoven's hair suggest that the composer had lead poisoning, which may have contributed to ailments he endured over the course of his life, including deafness, according to new research.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
B.C. man used Bobcat as 'weapon' while chasing away homeless people, judge says
A B.C. man has been convicted of assault with a weapon after using a skid-steer Bobcat to chase two homeless people from his lawn, injuring one of them in the process.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Flat tire on a highway? Here's why you shouldn't try to fix it
If you're cruising down a highway and realize you have a flat tire, you may want to think twice before stopping to fix it on the side of the road.
Miss Teen USA steps down just days after Miss USA's resignation
Miss Teen USA resigned Wednesday, sending further shock waves through the pageant community just days after Miss USA said she would relinquish her crown.