Tinamarie Ivey

Follow Coyote   by Dari Lawrie

LBCC

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The directing process for Follow Coyote, an original play by Dari Lawrie, is guided by a commitment to authenticity, cultural respect, and collaborative storytelling. The production demanded a nuanced approach to balance the historical backdrop of the Oregon Trail with the mythical and cultural significance of Coyote, a central figure in First American folklore. The process began with extensive research into the historical and cultural contexts of the play. This included consulting historical texts on the Oregon Trail and collaborating with Indigenous cultural advisors to ensure that the depiction of First American traditions, stories, and teachings was accurate and respectful. This collaboration informed not only the portrayal of the Trickster, Coyote, but also the visual and auditory elements of the production.

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Set in 1842 along the rugged expanse of the Oregon Trail, Follow Coyote tells the story of eleven-year-old William Armstrong, whose yearning to be a hero leads to impulsive choices, causing him and his strong-willed sister, Sarah, to become separated from their wagon train. Guided by the mischievous and wise Trickster, Coyote—an integral figure in First American folklore—William and Sarah embark on a transformative journey to reunite with their family. Along the way, they navigate challenges that not only test their courage but also immerse them in the rich traditions, stories, and teachings of the Indigenous peoples who have long called the region home. The set design is a dynamic and multi-layered representation of the Oregon Trail’s diverse terrain, seamlessly integrating elements that honor First American culture and the natural environment of the region. 

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