A proposed copper mine pits the preservation of a sacred Indigenous river against the survival of a rural town. Two young leaders, fighting to save their homes, become bitter political enemies. They also form an unlikely bond.
Inspired by true events at Oak Flat, Arizona, this show blends Indigenous storytelling with musical theatre, created by Mesquakie tribal elder Alex Walker Jr. and playwright/composer Cordelia Zars. Following a sold-out workshop production in 2023, We’re Still Here premiered with a 9-show run at the Dairy Arts Center in January & February 2025.
Listen to our Original Cast Album!
WE’RE STILL HERE IN THE NEWS
CPR News
Boulder Daily Camera
Westword
Listen Up! The people are raising their voice.
Written by Alex Walker and Cordelia Zars, this show is cross-cultural collaboration inspired by true events happening at Oak Flat, Arizona. Alex, a Mesquakie tribal elder, and Cordelia, a playwright and composer, worked hand-in-hand to create a unique fusion of Indigenous and musical theatre tradition to tell a story about identity, cultural preservation, and love. Though fictionalized & dramatized, this script emerged from years of research, interviews, and site visits to Oak Flat, Arizona.
A FEW TUNES FROM THE COMPOSERS
Alex Walker Jr. leads us in a prayer by the St. Vrain River. Traditional Mesquakie prayer and song were an integral part of our creative process as we develop characters, scenes, and musical numbers.
Cordelia reported the Oak Flat story for The Dirtbag Diaries Podcast in July, 2021. Hear the full story here, or wherever you get your podcasts.
