Pauline

A New Opera by Margaret Atwood and Christos Hatzis
Commissioned for Judith Forst

City Opera Vancouver announces Pauline, a chamber opera created for the great Judith Forst. The work is based on the life and final days of Canadian writer, poet, and actress Pauline Johnson. The music for Pauline will be written by Christos Hatzis and the libretto by Margaret Atwood.

A DVD has just been released, previewing the central aria from Act 1. It features Judith Forst, Sam Chung as the doctor, and pianist David Boothroyd. It was filmed at Tom Lee Music Hall. Click the player below to view the video in its entirety. (Hint: let it download completely before playing. It’s a big file.)

Pauline Johnson (1861-1913) traveled across Canada, the United States and Great Britain giving readings of her own work when such independence was rare and remarkable. She was the child of a Mohawk chief and a Quaker Englishwoman, and torn by loyalty and ambition. Pauline lived her last years in Vancouver and died a terrible death of breast cancer, treated by crude surgery and morphine.

Pauline’s sister destroyed a number of letters that might have illuminated personality and historic encounter. Pauline imagines what those letters might have said, and revealed, and intended.

“We are proud to offer a new opera to Judith Forst,” said Dr Nora Kelly, president of City Opera Vancouver. “Making such a gift is an honour for us. Forst, Atwood and Hatzis constitute an unmatched trio of talent. Pauline brings to its telling three of Canada’s most brilliant artists.”

Judith Forst has appeared on such stages as La Scala, The Met, San Francisco Opera, Chicago Lyric Opera, and the Canadian Opera Company.

Margaret Atwood is one of the world’s leading authors. Pauline was conceived by Ms. Atwood, and will be her first opera.

Christos Hatzis is one of Canada’s most distinguished composers. His work is widely published, recorded and performed, and has earned numerous prizes. Pauline will also be his first opera.

Pauline is the first commission made by City Opera Vancouver.

We gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Tom Lee Music, Steinway & Sons, the late Prof Abraham Rogatnick, Georgina M Brunette, Margaret E Prang, and a generous music commission grant provided by the Canada Council.