SIYOTANKA: Legend of The Flute hits stage
Gulf Breeze students, alumnus help tell story of finding your destiny
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From left, Darien DeMaria, Kyle Golden and Dr. Michael DeMaria of Gulf Breeze performed in the world premiere of 'Siyotanka.' Submitted photo

Darien DeMaria, a Gulf Breeze High freshman, Kyle Golden, a Gulf Breeze junior, and psychologist Dr. Michael DeMaria, a 1980 Gulf Breeze graduate, joined with an incredible cast and production crew to bring to life the world premiere of 'Siyotanka,' performed recently at the Pensacola Little Theatre.

The play tells the story of Takoda , a young man who is an outcast in his village. Takoda gets taunted by others in the tribe who are stronger and faster than he. He sets out on a physically demanding and seemingly impossible journey in search of a way to stand out. His encounters with tree and animal spirits teach him what really matters in life and ultimately help him to create the first wooden flute and a new type of music.

Co-writer and composer Michael DeMaria's fascination with Native American music began in 1993, when he heard the traditional flute music for the first time. Ten years later, he shared a favorite legend about the creation of the flute with theatre veteran and cowriter/ director Dr. Stephen C. Lott. Their five-year collaboration culminated in the stage production of Siyotanka in April at PLT. Michael DeMaria performed an original score live during each performance.

Both men felt it was very important to remain true to the deep spirit of the ancient legend and the beliefs of the Native Americans, but they also wanted to include in the play multiple layers of lessons relevant to young adolescents in today's challenging world.

Darien DeMaria made her stage debut in 'Siyotanka' as Hinhan, the wizened owl.

She is a drama student of Margie Timmons at GBHS and is looking forward to being involved with future productions.

Golden played 'Chaska' - Takoda's main rival in the village before and after his journey - and 'Dream Elk.' Golden has been interested in theater since acting in plays in elementary school. He performed in the GBHS production of 'On The Town' and is involved in Pensacola Little Theater's Lab Rats: Teen Improv Troupe, which has shows coming up in the next few months.

The soundtrack to 'Siyotanka' is Michael DeMaria's third compact disc. His first CD, 'The River,' was released in fall of 2003 and was voted a staff favorite on Growth House Radio in San Francisco and has been heard across the U.S., Europe, Russia and Australia. His second CD Ocean, like The River, is designed for helping with relaxation and sleep induction. Both are favorites among local massage therapists and yoga instructors.