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Presented by Soulpepper
First Métis Man of Odesa
By Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova
Directed by Lianna Makuch
A Punctuate! Theatre Production

Approx. Running Time: 90min (no intermission)
On stage May 8 to May 19
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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 events

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 refreshments, photo opportunities, and a special talkback with actor Mariya Khomutova and her mother Olga. Facilitated by Andrew Kushnir.

POST-SHOW TALkBACKS

Following two performances will be two enthralling talkbacks with the play's creators and lead actors, Mariya Khomutova and Matthew MacKenzie.

Tuesday, May 14th: facilitated by Soulpepper Associate Artistic Director Luke Reece, following evening performance

Wednesday, May 15th: facilitated by Soulpepper Director of Education & Community Engagement Rohan Kulkarni, following matinee performance 

Entertaining and Harrowing

- Vancouver Sun

The First Métis Man of Odesa retains a dreamy charm without ever letting go of the truth.

- Edmonton Journal


Major Sponsor & Community Access Partner


Also Playing At Young Centre