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Join us for a fun and free gathering to celebrate the book launch of First Métis Man of Odesa by Matthew MacKenzie and Mariya Khomutova (Playwrights Canada Press) at the Theatre Centre Café/Bar on Tuesday, October 29 at 8pm! Enjoy a festive fusion of Métis and Ukrainian culture, featuring live entertainment, delicious food, refreshments, and a special interview with the authors. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Space is limited, so be sure to RSVP and secure your spot for this unforgettable evening!

Toronto Lit Up is a multi-year initiative, started in 2016 by the Toronto International Festival of Authors and the Toronto Arts Council, to spotlight Toronto writers and empower local artists with career-building opportunities. Between April 2016 and March 2024, Toronto Lit Up has presented over 200 events featuring over 250 Toronto authors and illustrators. Toronto Lit Up book launches take place throughout the year at venues across the city. They are open to the public and free to attend. Click here for more information.

This event will be followed by a book signing.

First Métis Man of Odesa

Matt and Masha hit it off during a theatre research trip in Ukraine. At first they seem like opposites: Masha loves the sea, Matt loves mountains. Masha is Ukrainian, Matt is Métis. But the passionate spark ignited between them cannot be denied. Despite the improbabilities of a cross-continental relationship, a ... Read more

Buy from Playwrights Canada Press

Matthew MacKenzie

A citizen of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Matthew MacKenzie is a multi-award-winning playwright from amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton). Artistic Director of Punctuate!

Read more about Matthew MacKenzie

Mariya Khomutova

Ukrainian actor and playwright Mariya Khomutova started her theatre studies in Odesa at the age of 12. She graduated from the Kyiv National Theatre University in 2012 and worked in two repertoire theatres in Kyiv.

Read more about Mariya Khomutova