Kohkom’s Babushka
by Lianna Makuch and Joleen Ballendine
inspired by the book by Marion Mutala
Directed by Lianna Makuch
A play in development. Premiering October 2025.
produced by the Banff Centre for the Arts, Punctuate! Theatre, Pyretic Productions, and Pemmican Collective
Kohkom’s Babushka is a family theatre production inspired by the work of prairie author Marion Mutala. This story re-examines the legacies of traditional Canadian settler narratives, fostering dialogue that celebrates both differences and shared values. It highlights the beauty of cultural traditions, the spirit of generosity, and the enduring power of friendship.
When feuding tweens Paulette and Natalia are forced to team up to protect a beloved tree from being cut down, they get accidentally transported back to the turn of 20th century. The girls’ find themselves caught in an unfamiliar world and must discover a way to cooperate if they want to navigate their way back home.
Development History
Punctuate! Theatre & Pemmican Collective Playwrights’ Unit 2022/23
Sprouts Festival, Concrete Theatre - May 2023
Métis Crossing Research Retreat - October 2023
Banff Centre for the Arts, Slaight Family Theatre Creation Residency - December 2023, May 2024
Banff Centre for the Arts, Slaight New Play Actor Training, September 2024
World Premiere Production - Banff Centre for the Arts - October 8 - 18, 2025
Co-Creator
Joleen Ballendine
Joleen Ballendine and Lianna Makuch are childhood best friends and theatre professionals who have been creating and playing together since they were 12 years old. They are thrilled to embark on this cross-cultural exploration about cultural identity and the enduring power of friendship.
Joleen Ballendine is a mixed-blood Métis writer, actor, improviser, and educator, based in Treaty 6 Territories. Joleen has been an integral part of Canada’s third oldest improv company, Rapid Fire Theatre since 2009, currently holding the role of Director of Outreach and Welcome. She spearheaded the Outreach program in 2011 and since then has continued to grow the company's reach in the community. She works closely with Indigenous youth using improv and comedy to tell their stories.