By Queralt Carbo / staff writer

The Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre staged Brave on April 4 as part of the Arrow Rock Voices series, telling the story of Me-ho’n-ga, an Osage girl who traveled to Europe in 1827 on what was intended to be a diplomatic mission but became a difficult experience.

Producer Michael Kateman said the play focuses on a group of Osage people who traveled to Europe, aiming to highlight stories that have often been overlooked.

“This series is meant to bring to life voices that have been underrepresented or forgotten in history.”

The playwright, Elise Bear, explained how important it is to bring this story to light.

 “I wrote this play to speak to Osage people,” Bear commented. “For some people in our community, this is probably their first time hearing this story. However, this play is not only meant for us. I want non-Osage people to understand that we still exist, we are a vibrant culture.”

Bear added the play reflects the historical treatment of Indigenous people and experiences that have affected generations.

Production assistant Tom Wilson said the performance relies on collaboration behind the scenes. 

“I work as both a marketing manager and a production assistant. I help set up interviews for the documentary and assist with cameras and script preparation. The production is really a team effort,” he said.

The Voices of Arrow Rock series began in 2021 as part of the Missouri Bicentennial Commemoration and continues to focus on sharing historical and cultural stories with the community.

The production provides audiences with a deeper understanding of Osage history through a live performance.