A play written by
Marc Lescarbot and performed in
Port Royal,
New France (now
Nova Scotia) in
November,
1606 to celebrate the return of
Jean de Biencourt de Poutrincourt and
Samuel de Champlain.
What makes it noteworthy is that it is the first documented Western-style drama performed in Canada. This masque was written for entertainment, with the god Neptune welcoming travellers. To this end, it was performed both in the water and on the shore of Port Royal. It featured First Nations people, mythical figures, and made Glorias to the King of France, complete with use of trumpets and of cannons. It was performed by 70+ French and Micmac men, and was a combination of recital, musical, and song.
The Neptune Theatre, in Halifax, is named after the piece.