New Native Theatre presents

The Bird Blind

Written by Kira Apaachuaq Eckenweiler
Directed by Rhiana Yazzie

About the Play

The Bird Blind, a world premiere by Alaska Native writer, Kira Apaachuaq Eckenweiler, is an unflinching and compassionate story set in an Inupiaq village on Alaska’s Norton Sound. As generations clash, addictions simmer, and the tundra bears silent witness, a young boy and a troubled hunter expand the meaning of kinship in a makeshift bird blind. With razor-sharp dialogue and cultural truth, Eckenweiler weaves a play that is both a gut punch and a prayer revealing how even burdened people can find their way home. NNT is known for discovering and developing Native writers; following in that tradition, this new play will be directed by Artistic Director, Rhiana Yazzie.

Run Time
Approximately‍ ‍120 Minutes, including intermission

Age Recommendation
This production contains mature themes, strong language, and is not recommended for children.

Accessibility
An ASL-interpreted performance was available on 5/1/2026.

“an impressive debut from the playwright, beautifully brought to life by the team at New Native Theatre.”

— Cherry and Spoon

Quick Guide

New Native Theatre’s world premiere production of The Bird Blind ran from April 22-May 10, 2026.
Our ticket prices reflect our commitment to making theatre accessible while sustaining the artists and staff who bring each production to life.
$40
This is the full cost per seat to produce the show. Choosing this option directly supports the work onstage and behind the scenes.
$25
A reduced-price option for those who need a little more flexibility.
$10
Our lowest ticket price available online.
Pay-what-you-can tickets are always welcome at the door, subject to availability. If you’re able to give more, your generosity helps make space for others. Thank you for supporting non-profit, Native theatre.
Group ticketing is available for parties of 5 or more. To book group reservations, please contact us.
2026
April 22-May 10
825 Arts
825 University Ave W
St Paul, MN 55104
The Bird Blind includes themes around addiction, recovery, and the impact these struggles can have on family. This show is not recommended for children. Because sensitivities vary, we invite audiences to reach out to our Box Office if you’d like to learn more about the show’s content before attending.
New Native Theatre exists to support Native artists and to present the full range of Native storytelling. Those stories include joy and humor, and times of grief, addiction, abuse, and loss.
Artistic Director, Rhiana Yazzie says, “We don’t avoid difficult subject matter when it reflects real experiences in our communities. At the same time, we are intentional about the work we choose. We’re not interested in stories that exploit harm or use trauma for shock value. We select plays that approach complex topics with responsibility and purpose and leave our audience in a better place than when they walked into the theater.”
Recently, we hosted a community talk-back that included Native social service providers, counseling professionals, artists, and audience members. The goal was to begin building a structure for how we prepare audiences for challenging material. We discussed what types of content advisories are helpful and what tools or supports might be included in a study guide.
This conversation is guiding our approach as we continue developing thoughtful advisories and identifying relevant resources for audiences and educators.
The Bird Blind addresses difficult themes while remaining grounded in character, relationship, and accountability. We trust our artists and our audiences to engage with this work thoughtfully.