Kennetch Charlette

Kennetch studied at the Native Theatre School in Toronto and the Royal Conservatory's Drama Program at the University of Toronto. He has worked as an actor and director with many renowned theatre companies throughout North America and abroad. His film and television credits such as Big Bear (1998), Dear America: A Journey to the New World (1999), The Scarlet Letter (1995), Pocahontas: The Legend (1995). His involvement in Native theatre has given him a greater understanding of the responsibility Native artists have in sharing the many stories and experiences of our people through dramatization. Kennetch had the opportunity of working with many gifted Native playwrights, directors and actors including the admiration of Tomson Highway, Graham Greene, Gary Farmer, Floyd Favel, Tantoo Cardinal, 'Gordon Tootoosis', and Gil Cardinal. One play in particular that reinforced the importance of cultural identity was "Black Elk Speaks", a play that told the story of Black Elk, a Sioux Spiritual Leader and his vision for the indigenous people of North America. Kennetch believes that theater can be used as a tool for healing and is a vehicle to educate others. Although he received his formal training in Toronto, Kenneth has now brought his experiences as an actor and director home to Saskatchewan to assist in the establishment of a Native theatre company in Saskatchewan. "I believe the spirit and identity of Native people lies in the beliefs, traditions, and ceremonies of our ancestors. This knowledge and wisdom of our Elders must be passed on to our youth, and we can use theatre as a tool." He will continue with his efforts as the Artistic Director of the SNTC to expose native theatre to native and non-native people within Saskatchewan.