Kutulagaaw:
The Tlingit-Russian Battles

Kutulagaaw: The Tlingit-Russian Battles
Composer & Musical Director - Edward Littlefield / Shaakindustóow
Librettist- Vera Starbard
Director - Madeline Sayet
Orchestrator & Sound Designer - Rory Stitt
Tlingit Language & Cultural Consultant - Lance Twitchell

Sealaska Heritage Institute has partnered with Perseverance Theatre to co-produce the first Tlingit opera in recorded history. This original opera will focus on stories from the Tlingit-Russian War in Alaska waged in 1802 and 1804, based on historical facts and oral traditions as told from the Tlingit perspective. Singers, dancers, and musicians will fill the stage with a beautiful original score grounded in Tlingit musical traditions.

September 11 - 20, 2026

Friday September 11 - 7:30pm
Saturday September 12 - 7:30pm
Sunday September 13 - 4:00pm

Friday September 18 - 7:30pm
Saturday September 19 - 7:30pm
Sunday September 20 - 4:00pm

Performances will be held at
JDHS Yadaa.at Kalé Auditorium
1639 Glacier Ave
Juneau, AK 99801

You can help support the first ever Tlingit Opera in several ways:

  • Donate cash using the button on this page
  • Lend items, such as Rattles, Box drums or other items to be used on stage or in Orchestra.
  • Host a visiting artist July/August - September
  • Lend a car to a visiting artist July/August - September

Reach out to info@ptalaska.org if you would like to help in any of these ways