Leah Purcell's The Drover's Wife becomes a powerful new opera

ABC Australia is proud to highlight the latest evolution of Leah Purcell's powerful "Legend of Molly Johnson," now brought to life as a grand opera. This production represents a significant cultural moment, transforming Purcell's feminist and First Nations reimagining of Henry Lawson's classic tale into a new operatic form. The collaboration between Purcell, a proud Goa, Gunggari, Wakka Wakka Murri woman, and composer George Palmer, a former judge, is a testament to the rich tapestry of Australian storytelling. New Australian operas are a rarity, and this one carries immense weight, weaving together Australian history, both black and white, through the ancient art forms of narrative and music. For us in Australia, "The Drover's Wife" is more than just a story; it's a foundational text that resonates deeply with our national identity, touching on themes of survival, resilience, and the often-harsh realities of our past. Purcell's adaptation, which has already spanned play, novel, and film, now finds a powerful new voice in opera, ensuring these vital stories continue to be told and heard.

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[The opera] is Australian history, black and white, [combining] two ancient forms of story telling.