First Métis Man of Odesa

A LOVE STORY IN THE FACE OF A PANDEMIC AND AN INVASION.

Matt and Masha’s love spans continents, but distance can’t tame their passionate connection. After meeting on a theatre research trip in Kyiv, a Canadian Playwright and a Ukrainian artist spark up a romance that takes them from the beaches of the Black Sea to the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, through the onset of a global pandemic and the eruption of a brutal war, plus many moments of joy through it all including marriage and the birth of their son.

Winner of three Dora Mavor Moore Awards including Outstanding Production, Outstanding New Work, and Outstanding Direction. Based on actual events, this captivating real-life love story is set against the backdrop of the COVID pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Award-winning playwright Matthew MacKenzie joins forces with his wife, award-winning Ukrainian actress Mariya Khomutova, to tell the story of their COVID courtship and share an intimate perspective on the personal impacts of the war in Ukraine.

ANCILLARY PROGRAMS

Throughout the run we invite you to join us for the following FREE events. Registration not required.

odesa bazaar

Saturday, May 11th, 1pm-11pm: Join us in our atrium to check out and support Ukrainian artists and artisans who will be showcasing and selling handcrafted candles, stained glass, fine art, kids’ books, beaded jewellery, embroidery and more!

UKRAINIAN HERITAGE NIGHT

Saturday, May 11th, 9:30pm-11pm: Stick around after the evening performance for authentic Ukrainian cuisine, music, community, and check out the beautiful handiwork of Ukrainian artisans at the Odesa Bazaar. Access to the play requires a ticket, the post-show reception is open to all.

MOTHER'S DAY EVENT

Sunday, May 12th, 3:30pm: Celebrate Mother’s Day at Soulpepper! Bring your mom to the matinee performance of First Métis Man of Odesa on May 12, followed by complimentary afternoon tea and a special talkback with actor Mariya Khomutova and her mother Olga.

POST-SHOW TALBACKS

Tuesday, May 14th and Wednesday May 15th: Following these evening performances will be two enthralling talkbacks with the play’s creators and lead actors, Mariya Khomutova and Matthew MacKenzie, and will be hosted and moderated by Soulpepper Associate Artistic Director, Luke Reece.