Abstract
I have always been passionately interested in our history, and the relationship between Māori and Pakeha. The sounds of Māori music have been a presence in my music since I was a student, and echo through my symphonies. It is strong in works such as the choral work Ahua, to a script by Keri Hulme. I have also arranged several wonderful waiata, including Tutira Mai which has been sung in many different countries around the world, and recorded by the Tapiola Childrens Choir in Finland.
Therefore I was very excited when approached by Michelanne Forster to compose an opera based on the story of missionary Thomas Kendall, his wife Jane, and their dealings with Hongi Hika and Nga Puhi. The story is so intriguing and full of drama, and rich with potential for music. Although I have written five operas before, This Other Eden breaks new ground: it integrates elements of a Māori sound world with a pakeha one, mainly through use of taonga puoro (Māori instruments). At no stage, however, does it actually borrow an existing Māori waiata but rather imbues the music with influences from waiata.
This opera focuses on the actors. This might sound obvious, but in my opinion many contemporary operas suffer from being too focused on the orchestra. This Other Eden is a singers' opera, set to some wonderful, poetic words by Michelanne, with a great design by Marty Roberts, and superb direction by Jacqui Coats.
This composition was supported by The University of Otago.
Libretto by Michelanne Forster.