The ArtSparks powered by FirstOntario program provides all children in Milton in Grades 1 to 8 an opportunity to attend and experience a performance at the FirstOntario Arts Centre Milton, free of charge. This program removes the socioeconomic barriers that often surround the arts.
ArtSparks 2022
The ArtSparks 2022 program features The Mush Hole: Presented by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre. This performance pays respect to the many Survivors, acknowledging the lives and spirits of generations of Indigenous youth who “served time” at the Mohawk Institute residential school. It is about their survival, resilience and was created in close connection to Survivors, their writings, interviews and Survivor Series Talks.
The Mush Hole incorporates the bricks and mortar, the grounds of the Mohawk Institute, transporting audiences into the environment of the residential school, to rooms such as the Boy’s Playroom, solitary confinement under the staircase cubby hole and laundry room. The storyline follows two generations of Survivors demonstrating the intergenerational effects, representing the long history of the residential school.
This performance is recommended for Grades 7 and 8.
Audience notifications:
- Use of herbal cigarettes
- Representation of alcohol consumption
- Mature and potentially triggering scenes involving residential schools
- Representations of sexual and physical abuse
School performances
- Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 12:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Nov. 3 at 12:30 p.m.
To reserve space for your class, please submit the form or call us at 905-875-5393 ext. 4904.
Public performance
- Thursday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m.
Purchase tickets online.
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Program benefits
Participation in the arts has a positive impact on children. Evidence shows that children benefit in multiple ways when they engage in arts and culture activities. Some benefits include:
- Stronger academic performance, including improved scores on standardized tests
- Enhanced critical thinking skills, communication skills and emotional intelligence
- Improved health (mental and physical)
- Improved empathy and compassion for others
- Greater ability to express emotions
- New ways to perceive and relate to the world and an increased ability to connect with others
- Renewed focus and motivation to learn and actively engage in education
Testimonials
Watch testimonials from participants, sponsors, community members and politicians.
Promotional video
