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
TRAVELING TO JUNEAU TO SEE THE OPERA?
Alaska Airlines is generously providing a special discount code for 5% off flights to and from Juneau from anywhere is Alaska, Hawaii, or the Lower 48. The code will be provided once you purchase your tickets.
Alaska Seaplanes is offering a discount of 10% for flights using the code OPERA
Travelodge is offering rates of $149/night using this link
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