The Great Wave: A New Opera Exploring Hokusai's Life

The Great Wave, a new opera by composer Dai Fujikura and librettist Harry Ross, premiered at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow, focusing on the life of the renowned Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. The production, directed by Satoshi Miyagi, features baritone Daisuke Ohyama as Hokusai and soprano Julieth Lozano Rolong as his daughter Oi. The opera unfolds over five acts, beginning with Hokusai's funeral and employing flashbacks to explore his artistic journey and personal struggles.

The GuardianThe Telegraph - UKTheatre Royal, Glasgow

The opera is characterized by its visual and auditory elements, with Hokusai's iconic images projected onto bamboo walls, creating a striking backdrop. Fujikura's score incorporates the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese flute, to evoke a sense of openness and simplicity. Critics note that while the production is visually appealing, it often lacks dramatic tension, as Hokusai's challenges, such as his house burning down and his dealings with the Dutch, are presented without significant jeopardy.

The Guardian

The performances have received mixed reviews. Daisuke Ohyama's portrayal of Hokusai is noted for its lively acting, though some critics suggest his vocal performance may have been underpowered. Julieth Lozano Rolong's portrayal of Oi is highlighted as a standout, showcasing her vocal strength. The supporting cast, including Shengzhi Ren as Mr. Tozaki and Edward Hawkins as a publisher, also contribute to the overall experience.

The Guardian

Critics have expressed concerns regarding the opera's narrative coherence. The structure is described as a series of vignettes rather than a cohesive story, leading to a lack of emotional engagement. The libretto, while capturing Hokusai's spirit and optimism, is criticized for being too fragmented. Some reviewers argue that the production feels more Western than Eastern, potentially diluting its cultural authenticity.

The Guardian

Scottish Opera has emphasized the educational aspect of the production, with accompanying exhibitions and program essays aimed at enhancing audience understanding of Hokusai's life and work. The company has acknowledged the financial constraints under which they operated, yet they have managed to deliver a project that reflects both artistic ambition and cultural collaboration.

Theatre Royal, Glasgow

While some reviews praise the opera's visual and musical elements, others highlight significant shortcomings in narrative depth and emotional resonance. There is a consensus that the opera has potential but may not fully realize it due to its structural issues and the challenges of adapting Hokusai's life into a compelling theatrical format.

The Guardian

The Great Wave runs until February 14, 2026, and continues to attract attention for its unique blend of Eastern and Western artistic traditions. Future discussions may focus on how the opera can evolve to better capture the complexities of Hokusai's life and the broader implications of cultural representation in the arts.

Theatre Royal, Glasgow

• “The mosaic is in need of some mortar to hold it together more strongly.” — Review of the libretto

Theatre Royal, Glasgow

• “The Great Wave has the promise to be an intriguing work, but this uneven hybrid of East and West feels as if it is much more West than East and suffers because of it.” — Critique on cultural representation

Theatre Royal, Glasgow