Witness hope and resilience onstage in The Mush Hole – an exquisite theatrical dance performance that illuminates a dark corner of Canada’s history. From 1828 to 1970, Indigenous children from Six Nations were torn from their families, stripped of their names, and forced to live at Brantford’s Mohawk Institute Residential School. Kids called it the Mush Hole for the appalling gruel they were fed.

From visionary director, choreographer, and producer Santee Smith, comes this powerful story, created from the testimonials of two generations of Survivors. With visceral performances from an all-Indigenous cast, immersive video, and a cinematic musical score, this five-time Dora Award-winner is one of Canada’s must-see productions.

The Mush Hole

Young People's Theatre

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre is a Rotinonhsyón:ni led company renowned for exquisitely produced and viscerally impactful performances, embodying stories which cultivate space for transformation, dialogue and connection to Indigenous knowledge and experience. Founded in 2005 by Ohswé:ken / Six Nations of the Grand River based Artistic Director Santee Smith, Kaha:wi (Ga-HA-Wee) means “to carry” in Kanyen’kéha. Sharing new Indigenous performance, embodied and multidisciplinary storytelling, Smith’s work is focused on Indigenous methodology, interdisciplinary and intergenerational work. Artistic and community research for performances delved into ancestral memory, Onkwehónwe:néha mind-set and strive to align with and share truth, creativity, and story. The company plans and hosts land-based creation labs such as “Inviting the Land to Shape Us” and offers educational opportunities through masterclasses and workshops. Reaching audiences regional to global, Kaha:wi Dance Theatre ignites awareness and sparks opportunities for collaborations and exchange.

Santee Smith

Events

Past events

6 - 17 Oct, 2025

The Mush Hole · Young People's Theatre

27 - 28 Sep, 2024

Kaha:wi Dance Theatre · Live Art Dance

About

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