The premiere of the series “Yaga” on Crave this weekend will attract two main groups of viewers: fans of Hudson Williams eagerly anticipating his latest project after “Heated Rivalry” and enthusiasts who embrace spooky season like a significant cultural event.
The spotlight is not only on Williams but also on the stellar Canadian cast, including Carrie-Anne Moss from “The Matrix,” Noah Reid from “Schitt’s Creek,” Clark Backo from “Letterkenny,” and Megan Follows from “Anne of Green Gables.”
Set in the fictional town of Whittock, where a wealthy family holds power while witches assert their influence, the eight-episode half-hour drama promises a captivating mystery with Williams taking on dual roles. Filmed in misty Vancouver Island, the series is likened to “Dexter” with a witchy twist, as described by cast member Sheila McCarthy.
The initial two episodes will debut on Friday, followed by weekly releases until the season finale comprising two episodes on Nov. 27.
Before its adaptation into a streaming series, “Yaga” originated as a play that premiered at Toronto’s Tarragon Theatre in September 2019. The play, a blend of folklore and mystery that earned a Dora Award nomination, featured three actors portraying 17 characters on a minimalist stage. Kat Sandler, the playwright and director, now serves as the writer and showrunner for the streaming series.
Baba Yaga, a character from Slavic folklore, inspired the story of “Yaga.” Known as a solitary crone living in the woods in a hut on chicken feet, Baba Yaga embodies both a malevolent witch and a wise mentor in different tales, symbolizing themes of darkness, aging, and transformation into feminine power.
The involvement of Carrie-Anne Moss in “Yaga” was influenced by her love for the book “Women Who Run With the Wolves,” coinciding with a heartfelt invitation from Sandler. Moss, sharing her belief in signs guiding her life choices, expressed her connection to the project in an interview.
With a focus on powerful women on and off-screen, “Yaga” showcases a diverse and talented Canadian cast. Sandler lauded the collaborative and kind nature of the cast, emphasizing their dedication to realizing her vision for the series.
In anticipation of the series, Sandler expressed a mix of excitement and empowerment, highlighting the significance of having such a show in the television landscape.
