The Manitoba theatre community is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Ian Ross, a renowned Métis-Ojibway playwright, storyteller, and educator who died at 57. Described as a significant loss by Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre’s artistic director Kelly Thornton, Ross made a profound impact on many individuals.
Born in McCreary, Manitoba, in April 1968, Ross later relocated to Winnipeg and obtained a bachelor’s degree in film and theatre from the University of Manitoba. His play “fareWel,” a dark comedy depicting life on a fictional First Nations reserve, premiered at Winnipeg’s Prairie Theatre Exchange in 1996. This play earned Ross the prestigious Governor General’s Award for English Drama, making him the first Indigenous playwright to receive such recognition.
In addition to “fareWel,” Ross authored several other plays, including “The Gap,” “Heart of a Distant Tribe,” “An Illustrated History of the Anishinabe,” and “Baloney,” a production aimed at young audiences addressing poverty themes. His more recent work, “The Third Colour,” premiered at Prairie Theatre Exchange in 2019.
Beyond his theatrical accomplishments, Ross was known for creating the character “Joe from Winnipeg,” featured in segments he wrote and performed on CBC Radio and TV during the 1990s. He also actively contributed to the development of other Indigenous playwrights in Manitoba, notably through the RMTC’s Pimootayowin Creators Circle program, which he led starting in 2020.
Ross, who also taught theatre at the University of Winnipeg and the University of Manitoba, was remembered for his humorous and lively teaching style. His legacy of empowering Indigenous artists to share their stories and continue their creative endeavors will be carried forward through programs like the Pimootayowin Creators Circle.
Ian Ross’s dedication to Indigenous storytelling and his impactful mentorship will be cherished and continued, ensuring that his vision and the importance of sharing these stories on stage remain central in the Manitoba theatre community.