Gravy and Moe

Thank you to our wonderful sponsor, The Rozsa Foundation for awarding us new audio & lighting equipment!

Created by Kendra Henry and Meredith Taylor-Parry
“I didn’t know what to say…”
Talking about grief and loss isn’t easy for most people. Sometimes we are so worried we might upset the person who is grieving that we don’t talk about the loss at all. Grief can be a very isolating experience. What if we knew exactly what to say? Imagine a community that wasn’t afraid to talk about grief and loss. Think of what it would mean to a child who was suffering to be surrounded by peers that have some understanding of the journey of grief.

Why create a play about loss for children?

It is a heartbreaking fact that our children will face many kinds of loss. Divorce, death of a loved one or pet, a friend moving away or a tragedy they see on the news will affect young people whether the adults in their lives try to shield them or not. This play gently opens the topic of loss for discussion so children can be given permission to feel their feelings and begin to understand those who are grieving around them. Kendra and Meredith have lost three parents to the ugly face of cancer and it was through this shared heartbreak that an idea was sparked. If the journey of grief is so difficult and alienating for adults, imagine what it is like for children! Gravy and Moe is abstract and humorous, moving across language and cultural barriers to take the fear out of the subject. Children at different ages and stages will think of different types of loss after seeing this play and will connect it to their own experiences. They will begin to better understand their peers who are grieving a loss and learn that all our feelings are NORMAL.

Testimonials From Audience Members

"It shows how to move on and you’re not the only one experiencing grief" - Elementary student

" I was riveted! I also really felt the whole spectrum of emotions that can arise around a loss - Gravy’s death was absolutely heart wrenching and so beautiful. I cried!!" - Adult

"The language was very entertaining and helped soften the message but still delivered." - Adult

"Very artistic and very engaging and satisfying how it all played out." - Adult

"Just because someone doesn’t speak English, doesn’t mean their anguish isn’t real. Transcends borders." - Adult

"Absolutely helpful, especially for children. Play exemplified that it’s ok to express grief and it’s also ok to move on." - Adult

"Wonderful way to show both kids and adults that life goes on, will be different and difficult...but different isn’t bad. Support is there in all types of forms" - Adult

Would you like to help sponsor a performance for a deserving group or in honour of a loved one? If you donate through the ATB Cares program, ATB Financial will match your donation by 15% and provide a tax receipt!