Juneau to host world premiere of first Tlingit opera

Tickets are on sale now for what Sealaska Heritage Institute and Perseverance Theatre describe as the first Tlingit opera in recorded history. The world premiere is set for Sept. 11, 2026, at the Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé Auditorium. Single tickets go on sale July 11.

Ḵutulagaaw: The Tlingit-Russian Battles focuses on the Tlingit-Russian War in Southeast Alaska from 1802 to 1804. The Tlingit and Haida united and were victorious in 1802, but were forced to retreat from Sitka in 1804. The production is performed entirely in the Tlingit language, with a score grounded in Tlingit musical traditions, including forms once performed in natural mountain-valley amphitheaters.

"Though operas are foreign to Tlingit culture, the genre is a natural fit," SHI President Rosita Worl said. "Our people are known for their oratory, singing and storytelling skills. What better way to familiarize people with Tlingit culture and language than to tell a part of our history through opera?"

SHI initiated the project and co-produces it with Perseverance Theatre. The creative team includes librettist Vera Starbard, composer Edward Littlefield, translator and language consultant X'unei Lance Twitchell, and orchestrator Rory Stitt.

Performances run Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons from Sept. 11 through Sept. 20. Season subscriptions are available now at ptalaska.org. More information is at sealaskaheritage.org.