(left: scarce LP of musical version of Ryga’s famous play with Chief Dan George, Paul Horn, and Ann Mortifee, Kerygam Records, artwork: Frank Lewis, 1972; right: Longmans dj, 1963; cover art: Jerry Lazare)
George Ryga (1932-1987) was born in Deep Creek, AB and raised in a farming community and eventually settled in Summerland, BC. He wrote poetry, radio and tv plays, stage plays, film scripts, short stories, and novels that are usually critical of society. Ryga is best known for his ground-breaking play The Ecstasy of Rita Joe which was performed on record by Chief Dan George, Ann Mortifee, and Paul Horn. It also morphed into a ballet performed by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.