Chorus of Courage is many things. It is a space created to hold and honour the voices and stories of survivors of violence (our storytellers). We came together as a group and became friends and allies – a supportive family. We created a home to explore some of the most difficult experiences one can imagine – a retreat – and we did it with love, music, silence, acceptance, guidance, connection, and movement, hand in hand. This project explores the entire spectrum of emotions that are felt through the unique experiences of the ones we are here to honour – our storytellers. The stories shared and held at our retreat were given a voice and expression through our songwriters. These songs were captured, recorded, and then sent to our allies. Our allies echoed these songs and stories with another song, written in solidarity, creating a powerful musical conversation – a call and response through music and emotion that we look forward to sharing with you all – Chorus of Courage is a fluid conversation that holds the beauty and the horrors of lived experiences– it is an attempt to find some words and meaning, together, as a collective.
The evening at the National Arts Centre will showcase the songs our songwriters and allies created and provide a platform for the storyteller’s stories and experiences to be held and heard through song and music.
Additional Support:
A guide will compassionately lead us through a healing circle following the musical performances. This sacred space we create will be dedicated to offering solace, acknowledging the potential emotional impact on our audience and fostering a community of support, understanding and healing.
The Sexual Assault Center of Ottawa (SASC) will provide us with an on-site counsellor in case audience members need support. This will be accessible in the NAC Atelier at any point during or after the show. Please see a member of NAC staff who will help guide you to the location. To access the SASC 24/7 support line please call (613) 234-2266 and visit www.sascottawa.com for more information.
The partnered organizations involved in this project are:
Muskoka and Parry Sound Sexual Assault Services
Timmins and Area Women and Crisis
Songwriters that worked with our storytellers:
Our songwriting allies are:
Caution: The content on this site may be triggering for some individuals. If you find yourself in need of support, please reach out to resources like MPSSAS, TAWC, or Sexual Assault Support.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength!