Creators of first Tlingit opera take public questions Thursday in Juneau

Juneau residents can question the creative team behind the first Tlingit opera in recorded history at a free public panel Thursday, ahead of the work's premiere next month. The discussion, at Sealaska Heritage Institute, will also be livestreamed on SHI's YouTube channel.

The opera, "Ḵutulagaaw: The Tlingit-Russian Battles," is performed entirely in the Tlingit language, with a score grounded in Tlingit musical traditions. It tells the story of the Tlingit-Russian War of 1802-1804 from the Tlingit perspective — the Tlingit and Haida united and won, then were forced to retreat from Sitka in 1804. SHI and Perseverance Theatre call it the first Tlingit opera ever recorded, and frame it as a way to keep the Tlingit language alive and visible in public life.

SHI President Rosita Worl, who will open Thursday's panel, said the idea came to her at Sitka National Historical Park. "One account described the moments before a battle. The Tlingit and Haida were waiting on the beach. As the women beat their drums, the fog lifted, revealing the approaching Russians. I could see them advancing and hear the chaos of war: drumbeats, yelling and metal clashing," she said.

The panel brings together the opera's librettist, director, composer and language consultant. The world premiere follows Sept. 11 in Juneau, with performances through Sept. 20, including a free matinee for junior high and high school students. Tickets are at ptalaska.org.