Lawrence, KS- April 25,2026, Community members of Lawrence and Haskell Indian Nations University (HINU) filled the auditorium at Haskell University on Saturday to view the debut production of Wounspe Wanktya: A College Education, by the ThunderBird Theater.
Wounspe Wanktya: A College Education, by Alexandria Ramier, tells the story of two Indigenous friends, Tiffany (Alison Levering) and Tishina (Myrna Red Leaf). The play captures the harsh realities of friendship, academics, family values, and mental health that young adults endure while in college. Tishina tries to help Tiffany, who is failing school and spiraling into the party scene, getting her back on her feet, while she battles with her own struggles with drug addiction, depression, and thoughts of suicide. As the two girls work through their challenges, they are accompanied by a grass dancer spirit (Echo Long Soldier) who guides them through their darkest moments.
Most scenes cover the hardships that Indigenous people endure, such as stereotypical misrepresentation and racial harassment. Other scenes shed light on topics that seem to “hit home” with the audience. Sydney Luis, a student at Haskell, replied, “I found that I resonated a lot with the topics they covered, like missing home, worrying about others, and how we represent ourselves when we do go outside into the world. I was told by my parents that when I do leave my house, I represent my family and the people around me.”
The production also took a comedic approach, incorporating the Haskell choir and the band (Red DC). The audience laughed as they performed modern hits like Pink Floyd’s “Brick in the Wall” and the Bee Gees’ “Staying Alive,” with a “Native twist” that altered the lyrics to reference Indigenous culture. “I really enjoyed the music. I found it really humorous, actually, and the young man shaking it had me laughing,” said Janet, a teacher from Lenexa.
Wounspe Wanktya A College Education was a success, capturing the audience with its humor, raw emotion, complex realities, music, and Indigenous cultural aspects. The play ended with a standing ovation. With some local residents like Scott adding, “It was really enjoyable. The cast and crew did a really good job, and I can’t wait for the next one.“ Some of the crew expressed their gratitude, “Waewaenen,” to everyone for sharing in this extraordinary experience. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did,” expressed Jade Warrington, assistant director and senior at HINU.
If you would like to support HINU and ThunderBird Theater, you can view the production online at the Haskell Indian Leader YouTube Channel or the Haskell Facebook social media page.
