Heart, humour, and sunshine come to life with Lighthouse Festival’s ‘Crees in the Caribbean’(Welland Tribune)

Indigenous playwright Drew Hayden Taylor’s story offers audiences a joyful look at relationships, identity and the adventure of trying something new at any age.

June 8, 2026

Welland Tribune

By Welland Tribune Staff

Port Colborne audiences are invited to step outside their comfort zone alongside a long-married Cree couple as they leave their familiar northern life behind in Lighthouse Festival’s production of “Crees in the Caribbean.”

Written by Drew Hayden Taylor, one of Canada’s most celebrated Indigenous playwrights and storytellers, the heartfelt comedy about love and culture follows the Poundmakers — Evie, played by Krystle Pederson, and Cecil, played by Lawrence Bayne — as they leave their familiar northern life behind to celebrate their anniversary at a tropical Mexican resort. 

But sun, sand and relaxation quickly give way to unexpected friendships, cultural misunderstandings and discoveries about themselves and each other, said a news release from the theatre group. It offers audiences a joyful look at relationships, identity and the adventure of trying something new at any age.

“I wanted to do an elder’s love story and comedy,” said Taylor. “I know plenty of older people who have never been out of the country, and thought this might be an interesting way to approach telling an old-fashioned love story.

 “I’ve been to Mexico many times, and I frequently wonder how my grandparents would react. To the best of my knowledge, they never left the county. That was the genesis.”

Taylor said the play was also an opportunity to share a lighter perspective on Indigenous life and culture.

“I told this story quite a few years ago. Personally, as a writer, I like going back and forth between comedies and dramas. I’ve seen so many dark and bleak stories of Indigenous people, and I frequently like to present a more positive and enjoyable peek at our lives.”

He said fish-out-of-water stories are always fun. 

“Also, providing a window for other cultures to see how we live, and vice versa — creating a play to show unusual aspects of the dominant culture. I am a storyteller. I realize the world is the audience. I write stories that tell a truthful perspective. I can’t do anything else.”

Lighthouse’s interim artistic producer David Leyshon said the production perfectly balances comedy with emotional depth.

“Drew has an extraordinary ability to make audiences laugh while also opening the door to meaningful conversations. It is warm, funny and full of heart, but beneath the comedy is a beautiful exploration of relationships and human connection.”

He said the play continues Lighthouse’s commitment to bringing distinctly Canadian stories to audiences across Ontario.

“One of the things that makes this play so special is how relatable it feels. Whether you’ve travelled the world or never left your hometown, audiences will recognize themselves in these characters. Funny, honest and incredibly uplifting, it’s a play that will resonate with everyone. We’re proud to bring this Canadian story to Port Colborne this summer.”

“Crees in the Caribbean” is at Roselawn Theatre, 296 Fielden Ave., July 8-19. Single tickets and subscriptions for the 2026 season are available at lighthousetheatre.com or by calling the box office at 1-888-779-7703.