In a groundbreaking cultural symphony, Astrolabe Musik Theatre, in collaboration with Opus 59 Films, proudly presents the television premiere of THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ. This TELUS original documentary feature marks the first-ever Canadian opera specifically shot as a film. Having graced the stage at the International Festival of Films on Art (FIFA) in Montreal, this musical odyssey is poised to captivate audiences across Canada and around the world. The film, a poignant tale of cross-cultural collaboration and the decolonization of a 1950s Canadian opera, will be available for free on demand on TELUS Optik TV Channel 8 and online at telusoriginals.com worldwide starting December 14th, 2023.
A Symphony of Collaboration and Discovery
Directed by Vancouver’s own John Bolton (Aim For The Roses), THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ transcends the traditional operatic experience. The documentary follows the inspiring friendship between Westbank First Nation elder and artist Delphine Derickson and Canadian soprano Heather Pawsey. Their extraordinary connection, formed in 2012, blossomed into a groundbreaking two-year cross-cultural collaboration. Together, they embarked on a transformative journey to decolonize The Lake, a historic opera penned in 1952 by esteemed Canadian composer Barbara Pentland.
Voices United, Stories Resonate
The film weaves together Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives, bringing to life the music, stories, and dance from the original 2014 live-staged production. Filled with laughter and tears, THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ provides an honest oral history, capturing both the successes and failures of this ambitious project. The documentary invites viewers to witness the magic that unfolds when people truly listen to each other, celebrating the power of shared understanding.
Stellar Cast and Collaborators
Delphine Derickson and Heather Pawsey take center stage, supported by a stellar cast including Corinne Derickson, Jordan Coble, Krystal Withakay, Glenn Deneault, Leslie Uyeda, Owen Underhill, Jeremy Berkman, Angus Bell, Kwangmin Brian Lee, Barbara Towell, and Tony Stewart of Quails’ Gate Estate Winery. The film, produced and directed by John Bolton, features the talents of Heather Pawsey and Delphine Derickson, with Christina Willings serving as the Executive from TELUS originals.
A Symphony of Support
THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ is not only a testament to artistic collaboration but also a product of generous support. Produced with the backing of the Vancouver Foundation, the Canada Council for the Arts, the BC Arts Council, Creative BC / Amplify BC, and other key sponsors including Westbank First Nation, Turning Point Ensemble, Quails’ Gate Estate Winery, and the Canadian Music Centre in BC, the film stands as a testament to the power of collective effort.
Mark your Calendars for December 14th
As THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ makes its television debut, it unveils a unique intersection of culture, music, and storytelling. This TELUS original documentary breaks new ground, not only as the first Canadian opera shot as a film but also as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration. Audiences are invited to join this musical journey, as the film echoes the resounding message that harmony prevails when diverse voices come together in shared understanding. Mark your calendars for December 14th, 2023, as THE LAKE / nx̌aʔx̌aʔitkʷ sets sail on a cinematic voyage like no other.
