Hokusai’s Wave: Opera, Art & Classical Music Review

Opera, an art form steeped in visual spectacle, has historically *borrowed* from the visual arts. Kokoschka, Dalí, Hockney, Chagall – their canvases have graced the stage. But rarely does opera turn its gaze *onto* the artist themselves. Scottish Opera’s new production, “The Great Wave,” is a fascinating anomaly, and a potentially shrewd move in a landscape increasingly hungry for cross-cultural narratives.

This isn’t simply a story about a painter; it’s a story about reinvention, resilience, and a remarkably prolific career. Hokusai lived to 88, survived natural disasters, and constantly rebranded himself with over 30 different names – a level of self-mythologizing that would make any modern celebrity PR team envious. The choice to focus on Hokusai feels particularly timely. We’re in an era where personal branding is paramount, and the narrative *around* the artist is often as important as the art itself.

The production’s collaborative nature – with financial support from Japanese government agencies and a team of Japanese designers – is also noteworthy. It’s a calculated effort to present an authentic, yet universally accessible, story. The inclusion of traditional Japanese instruments, like the shakuhachi, and the director’s interpretation of its sound as Hokusai’s voice, adds another layer of cultural depth. This isn’t cultural appropriation; it’s a genuine attempt at dialogue, and a smart one at that. Opera houses are constantly seeking ways to broaden their appeal, and tapping into the fascination with Japanese art and culture is a logical step.

The fact that composer Dai Fujikura initially only knew Hokusai for “The Great Wave” before discovering the depth of his life speaks to the power of this production to recontextualize a familiar image. The opera’s exploration of Hokusai’s relationship with his daughter, Ōi, is particularly compelling, highlighting a dynamic rarely seen in historical narratives. It’s a story of artistic partnership and a woman who prioritized her craft over conventional expectations – a narrative that resonates strongly with contemporary audiences.

“The Great Wave” isn’t just an opera; it’s a carefully constructed cultural event. It’s a story about art, resilience, and the power of reinvention, presented with a sensitivity and awareness that suggests a long and successful life beyond its initial Glasgow and Edinburgh runs. The planned transfer to Tokyo and Kyoto in 2027 solidifies its position as a significant piece of cultural exchange, and a testament to the enduring power of Hokusai’s vision.