The newly-formed Anishnaabe Theatre Exchange uses theatre to activate networks with Native communities in the Great Lakes region. The exchange builds upon 2015 activities which connected University of Michigan students, faculty and staff with the Cultural Department of the Chippewa Sault Ste. Marie Tribe, Lake Superior State University and Bay Mills community members. One outcome of the pilot project was community interest in writing and documenting local histories. This new exchange brings professional artists and the Indigenous Youth Council to dialogue about social and political issues. The ATE was formed when we realized there was a willingness within the community to tell stories this way. We hope to continue to develop performance events which speak to social concerns and histories of the Anishnaabe people.
