the play is based on the actual events of how the two playwrights, matthew and mariya, got together. after a year of correspondence, they travel to each other’s countries, but after only their second visit together, they are thrust into the global pandemic, with mariya subsequently learning she is pregnant.
the play sheds light on the impact the war in ukraine has had on families globally.
the name of the play, first métis man of odesa, is referring to matthew and mariya's newborn son. it’s a hopeful way of imagining that one day their child will be able to travel to ukraine after the conflict ends.
has toured to over eight canadian cities and counting, with thousands attending.