OTF Grant Gives Odyssey Showcase "Canada Speaks" a Stronger Voice

Ottawa based Odyssey Showcase (OS) is once more bringing together diverse educators and performing artists to create projects that engage audiences with new presentations devoted to inclusive themes, diversity and inspiration. OS continues to develop Canada Speaks in Diverse Ways/Les voix du patrimoine/ Aki Animitagozig, a video series and live presentations that explore how Canada Speaks in a variety of ways through law, music, dance, language, culture, social media and more.

With this supportive grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), the series will continue with: "The Drum, the Shofar and Universal Beats": "When The Spirit Moves You, Quand l'esprit vous anime, Apich nondawag tewehigan Manidò nigandinig kidji nimiyàn" currently in production. The video and related live performance will focus on two instruments of deep significance to their respective communities - the Indigenous drum and the shofar (ram's horn) that heretofore have never shared a stage. The multicultural project will integrate music, poetry and dance to explore issues of equity, multiculturalism, spirituality and social justice. The material will be fully accessible online with teacher/facilitator materials and learning activities.

For over 25 years, Odyssey Showcase has been creating and presenting award-winning, original productions that are artistic, educational, multicultural, and accessible. Our work promotes social inclusion by highlighting authentic, diverse voices and artistic traditions-showcasing the distinct cultural expressions that shape our shared identity. Visit OS to learn more.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment.