By ROSELYNN YAZZIE

OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS

FORT HALL — The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are excited to host a special premiere of the beloved PBS Kids “Molly of Denali” children’s program on Tuesday, November 4, at 6 p.m. at the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel.

This free, family-friendly event will debut Episode #502 “Molly of Idaho / Cinder Cones and Broken Drones”, which spotlights Shoshone-Bannock lands, stories, and community members.

“Molly of Denali” follows Molly Mabray, a 10-year-old Alaska Native girl who is Gwich’in/Koyukon/Dena’ina Athabascan. Through her adventures, the show celebrates Indigenous culture, storytelling, and problem-solving while educating young audiences.

In this special episode, Molly visits the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and tells the story of Grandpa Nat, who accidentally leaves behind his microphone he needs to do a documentary. Molly and her new friend Stormee, spring into action by drawing inspiration from the Indian Relay Race and navigating lava tubes to save the day. Later, they learn the traditional story of Doe’gwo’ah, the Big Snake credited with creating the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve lava fields, before encountering a real rattlesnake on their adventure.

“It is important for our Native students to see representation of themselves in mainstream television and media,” said Jessica James, Tribal Education & Library Program Manager.

Youth Education Manager, Dana Hernandez said, she grew up seeing very little Native representation on TV, “So when I heard there is an episode that will feature Molly in Idaho, I thought this is a win.”

 The episode has been years in the making and features local Shoshone-Bannock voice actors and storytellers, including Rose Ann Abrahamson, Gator Boyd, Michael Tindore, Israel Apodaca, and Jessica James. Following the screening, attendees will have the chance to participate in a Q&A session with the local stars. The evening will also include PBS giveaways and family activities.

The premiere is open to the public, and families are encouraged to attend and celebrate this exciting moment for Indigenous storytelling.