NOTES

When Jimmy first approached me about writing a play about Jordan River Anderson, I was a little apprehensive. Indigenous theatre has often dealt with difficult subjects, because our history here has been challenging, and sometimes artistic expressions of those difficult subjects can be (re)traumatizing. And this is Theatre for Young Audiences!

But Jimmy’s brilliant idea that Jordan was a superhero served as a jumping off point.

Like Jimmy, I knew the story of Jordan, but also knew that many people did not. Indeed, even some people who were benefiting from Jordan’s Principle were unaware of who Jordan was and how his name came to be attached to the Principle. I wanted people to know who Jordan was, to remember him, to celebrate him.

Little did we know, when we started working on this play three years ago, that Jordan’s Principle would be in the news again when we headed into rehearsal. Little did we know that Jordan’s impact on the world would still be reverberating in this way.

Every life affects the world in some way. I wanted Jordan, the play, to honour Jordan, the child, whose life changed the world.

Before reconciliation, there must be truth. And truth begins with stories—stories that are told, heard, and carried forward. Jordan is one of those stories.

But this is not a story of sadness. It’s a story of strength, love, and impact. Jordan River Anderson is a hero. His name has changed lives. His fight has made the world better for tens of thousands of Indigenous children. And through Yvette Nolan’s beautiful words, we don’t just remember Jordan—we celebrate him.

Indigenous children deserve to be treated and cared for the same as every other child. You’d think that wouldn’t be a controversial statement. And yet, here we are. Jordan’s story is proof of what happens when people refuse to accept injustice. His legacy is a call to action, a reminder that the work is not done. 

This show belongs to the people who bring it to life every night. To the cast—your talent, your energy, your heart, and your humor shine in every moment. You make this story soar (sometimes literally). To the production team—your patience, problem-solving, and ability to turn chaos into magic are unmatched. You are the real superheroes here. To the designers—you’ve built a world that is stunning, layered, and full of surprises, proving once again that theatre people are part wizards.

To the Anderson family—thank you. Thank you for your generosity, your trust, and for sharing Jordan’s light with us. We hope this play honors him and the incredible impact he continues to have.

To the Geordie team—you are the backbone, the glue, and occasionally the duct tape that holds everything together.

This couldn’t be possible without each and every one of you.

It’s gonna be a good one!!

Kinanâskomitin,