
Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate’s ‘Loksi’ Shaali” to Make World Premiere in Oklahoma City
By Afton MarkayEmmy-winning composer and citizen of the Chickasaw Nation Jerod Impichchaachaaha’ Tate is set to make history with the world premiere of his opera, “Loksi’ Shaali'” (“Shell Shaker”).
The world’s first opera composed entirely in an American Indian language, “Loksi’ Shaali” tells the Chickasaw origin story of the tribe’s sacred turtle shell shakers, integral to traditional stomp dancing and social songs, from the perspective of Loksi’, a young Chickasaw girl. It explores themes of identity, resilience, and cultural pride.
The title role will be premiered by soprano Katelyn Morton, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. The cast is completed by other American Indian opera singers, such as Hugo Vera, Mark Billy, Kirsten C. Kunkle, Nicole Van Every, and Grant Youngblood. They are joined by the Canterbury Voices and the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, conducted by TianHui Ng.
“’Loksi’ Shaali” is my is my opportunity to bring Chickasaw language and legend to the world concert stage of opera. In this creation, I am deeply blessed to have the support of my family, tribal community and classical community. I feel eclipsed by the creative talent involved in this production and I hope our audiences feel enriched and empowered through Chickasaw ethos and culture,” said Tate in a press release,
“Loksi’ Shaali’,” premieres at the Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City, on Oct. 27. The opera will be reprised in March 2025 at Mount Holyoke College in Amherst, MA.
Categories
News