Set in the vibrant heart of Chicago’s North Side, Pigeon/Thunderbird follows a close-knit group of queer urban Natives as they navigate community, kinship, and survival in a world that seldom accommodates all three. When a trickster arrives with an unexpected proposition, this chosen family must decide whether to protect the bonds that unite them or risk everything in pursuit of something greater. Pigeon/Thunderbird intertwines Indigenous storytelling with contemporary queer realities, offering a bold exploration of love, belonging, and transformation.

For our 31st Festival of New Plays, Native Voices is honored to share the works and voices of two Chicago playwrights, each bringing a unique perspective to the stage: Pigeon/Thunderbird by Dillon Chitto (Mississippi Choctaw, Laguna, and Isleta Pueblo) and  A Century of Sparrows by Sierra Rosetta (Lac Courte Oreilles Chippewa Nation). 

As many are aware, Native Voices selects plays that resonate with our current social climate and the issues affecting Indian Country. And in true serendipitous fashion, there is always a common theme we do not fully recognize until after the plays are selected. While both plays are by Chicago playwrights and reference birds, we promise that is not their only connection; both works delve deeply into what a family is.  

Are we born into our family, or do we choose them? What cycles do we inherit from them? And what cycles can we break? As we all know too well, no words can cut deeper or deeply comfort like those spoken by "family." So join us as we experience all the joy, anger, laughter, provide. These plays are not just about the characters on stage but about all of us, and the many types of families we are a part of.

11am - Staged Reading: A Century of Sparrows by Sierra Rosetta 

2pm - Staged Reading: Pigeon/Thunderbird by Dillon Chitto 

*We encourage you to see both plays! If you do choose to see both, please make sure to reserve a ticket for EACH as they are ticketed separately.