"Hiawatha (A Summer Idyl)" written by Neil Moret (1901)

"Hiawatha" is sung by Metis actor, John D. Huston, performing in Keir Cutler's solo play, "Civilized" which premiered in 2022.
"The “Indian Love Song,” was a musical phenomenon that sprang up in the late 19th century as a direct result of white America’s newfound fascination with the Indian reservation, as well as Americans’ deep obsession with capturing and capitalizing upon the dying cultural traditions of a race of people they simultaneously sought to exterminate." (Kimimilasha James)
The monologue "Civilized" resurrects a "civilized" Canadian government bureaucrat from the year 1907 to defend the indefensible, Sir Wilfrid Laurier's treatment of Indigenous Peoples. A compelling look at how being "civilized" has warped our values and led to the Indian Residential Schools' catastrophe. Based on historical reports, writings and speeches.
Directed by Paul Hopkins.
Previews were held in Kitchener, Ontario in early June, and the show opened at the 2022 Ottawa Fringe, and will go on to the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, and then Toronto's Red Sandcastle Theatre for a week opening on September 30th - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Filmed before a live audience at the 2022 Ottawa Fringe Festival.
www.keircutler.com