Work

Programme Note

This Other Eden is set in the early 19th century and tells the story of missionary Thomas Kendall and his friendship with Nga Puhi chief Hongi Hika. There are no villains or heroes in this opera – only the story of a man seeking paradise on earth who is cruelly disillusioned. Kendall’s belief that Māori culture will unlock the key to the universal mysteries of life and death leads ultimately to his corruption and a broken spirit. Similarly, Hongi Hika’s desire for European technology to create an impenetrable stronghold for Nga Puhi leads to the destruction of Māori on an unprecedented scale.

Text Note:

a libretto by Michelanne Forster

Influences:

• Culture - NZ

Performance History

	20 Nov 2009	Showcased at The Great Hall in Christchurch with conductor Holly Mathieson and excerpts directed by Eric Hooper. 2 scenes