In Cherie Dimaline’s novel “Empire of Wild,” three generations of women strive to rescue their family member from the clutches of the wolf-like Rogarou, aiming to locate a missing husband and safeguard their territory from corporate interests. The narrative’s raw, alluring, and intense nature led it to be recognized as the top book of 2019 by Indigo, surpassing renowned works such as “The Testaments” by Margaret Atwood and “Daisy Jones & The Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
A significant investment of approximately $4 million is underway to assemble an Indigenous-led creative team to adapt the book into an opera, with plans for the world premiere set in Toronto next spring. This initiative seeks to attract a younger audience and newcomers to opera, potentially challenging traditionalists who prefer the classic repertoire.
“Empire of Wild” unfolds in the Georgian Bay Métis community of Penetanguishene, Ontario, Cherie Dimaline’s hometown, where the Rogarou, a character from Ian Cusson’s upbringing tales, is recognized. Cusson, the composer, and Dimaline, who penned the libretto, aimed to craft contemporary characters relatable to modern audiences, including queer individuals and a working-class family navigating extraordinary circumstances.
The storyline, rooted in power, resistance, and resilience, follows Joan’s quest to reunite with her husband amid mysterious forces at play, drawing on ancestral magic and emphasizing matrilineal support. The narrative, inspired by Métis folklore, features a diverse cast, including Indigenous talents like Marion Newman and Evan Korbut, embodying the characters’ essence.
Indigenous creatives, led by Dimaline and Cusson, drive the opera’s production, incorporating elements of survivance—a blend of survival and resistance—reflecting Indigenous perseverance amidst colonial challenges. The collaborative process, championed by an inclusive circle of contributors, emphasizes equal participation and values each individual’s input, aiming to redefine traditional art creation methods.
Elisabeth St-Gelais, portraying Joan, the protagonist, highlights the story’s universal themes and the importance of showcasing diverse narratives to connect with contemporary audiences. This innovative approach to opera creation, championed by Indigenous talents, symbolizes a broader cultural shift towards inclusivity and diversity in various societal realms.