Play by Poet Laureate Joy Harjo Highlights New Annual Native American Theatre Festival

The University of New Mexico Department of Theatre and Dance, in collaboration with Two Worlds Theatre, proudly presents “Wings of Night Sky, Wings of Morning Light,” a play by Joy Harjo, the former Poet Laureate of the United States.

Directed by UNM Theatre and Dance adjunct faculty Erik Ehn and with dramaturgical guidance from Kim Delfina Gleason, this production is set to be a highlight of the 2023 Annual Native American Theatre Festival.

“Wings of Night Sky, Wings of Morning Light” tells the story of a young Native American woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, guided by the spirit of her ancestors. Through a powerful blend of poetry, song, and dance, the play explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the interconnection of all things.

Harjo, a member of the Mvskoke Creek Nation, is a renowned poet, musician, and performer who has received numerous awards and accolades for her work. She is the first Native American to hold the position of U.S. Poet Laureate and is known for her unique and powerful voice.

“Harjo’s poetry is sublimely agile and emotionally involving. Her play is timely (addressing issues of precarity) and is also universal in its celebration of healing, compassion, and perseverance.” Said director Erik Ehn, “She offers a story for a community’s reflection and re-telling.”

Co-produced with Two Worlds Theatre, a leading producer of Native American theatre in Albuquerque, NM, “Wings of Night Sky, Wings of Morning Light” is a must-see production for all Albuquerque audiences. The Annual Native American Theatre Festival highlights productions across the city, including a run of “The Rez Sisters” by Thomson Highway, directed by Jay B. Muskett and the Vortex Theatre and a staged reading from Kim Delfina Gleason of her original play “Dancing with Fire”.

April 16th will feature a special talk back with the cast and crew of “The Rez Sisters” and “Wings of Night Sky, Wings of Morning Light” at the Vortex Theatre.

“Wings of Night Sky, Wings of Morning Light” opens April 21st at the Experimental Theatre in the UNM Center for Fine Arts. Tickets are available now at unmtickets.com or at the UNM Bookstore.