The Northwest Puppet Center presents the Carter Family Marionettes production “Q’we-ti: Tales of the Makah Tribe” now through Nov. 21 at the Center’s theater in North Seattle.
Told with elaborately carved marionettes, “Q’we-ti” (pronounced kwa-tee) brings to life seven legends of the Makah people, whose ancestral home is the far Northwestern tip of the Olympic Penninsula. Makah Museum staff and the Native Resource Elders worked closely with the Carters recounting the oral traditions that have been passed down through the generations. The stories tell of Early Time, before Changer came to the world. Clever Q’we-ti, in his magical canoe, tricks greedy Raven and the fearful witch Basket Ogress who roams the beaches in search of careless children. But even trickster Q’we-ti is outsmarted by the mysterious Moth people and the enchanting Octopus Woman.
This special production is a collaboration between the Carter family and the Makah elders from Neah Bay. The puppets are carved in yellow cedar by renowned Northwest sculptor Duane Pasco and exhibit the refined and expressive style of Northwest coastal native art. This show was honored with a Citation of Excellence from the American Center for the Union International de la Marionette, an award created by the late Jim Henson.
“Q’we-ti: Tales of the Makah Tribe” is presented at the Northwest Puppet Center, located at 9123 15th Avenue NE. in Seattle. Tickets are $9.50 for adults, $7.50 for ages 16 &under and $8 seniors, available at the door (25 minutes before each show), or by calling 206-523-2579.
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