A NEW opera rooted in Jersey life – and created entirely by Jersey-born artists – is set to premiere in spring 2026 in a landmark moment for the Island’s cultural scene.
Held in the Tide is a contemporary opera that will blend classical, folk, and electronic music while following the story of two characters in Jersey.
The piece is being led by internationally acclaimed local mezzo-soprano Georgia Mae Bishop and performed by three professional singers and four musicians.
Created through ‘Raise Your Voice, Jersey!’, an ArtHouse Jersey project to modernise the traditional artform, the opera was designed through community workshops with local people.
As part of the production, which is supported by Coutts Crown Dependencies, ArtHouse Jersey is calling for 20 to 25 keen singers to join the production’s community chorus.
Anyone aged over 18 living in Jersey who enjoys singing can take part. No professional experience or audition is required – participants will receive vocal and performance guidance in the months preceding the opera.
Announcing the new show, ArtHouse Jersey producer, Robyn Cabaret, said creating Held in the Tide had been “an extraordinary journey”.
She said:”From the very beginning, our aim was to redefine a post-medieval artform, moving beyond opera’s traditionally male-dominated narratives and create something that feels unmistakably Jersey: shaped by our landscapes, our humour, and the many voices of the people who call this Island home.”
“We’re incredibly excited to share it with audiences of all ages next spring, and we hope Islanders will feel proud of the story we’ve created together.”
Jersey Opera House’s programme manager, Rebecca Stanier, added: “We hope that
having the voices of the Island showcased in this exciting, accessible and collaborative
new opera will appeal to a broad audience; from newcomers to opera lovers and everyone
in between.”
“We’re delighted to be supporting such a local, community-led project, with Jersey being amplified through both the storytelling and performers, which will be a huge highlight in our spring programme.”
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Held in the Tide is set to premiere on Thursday 26 March until Friday 27 March at the Jersey Opera House and tickets are available on the Jersey Opera House website and box office.
Anyone who wants to join the production’s community chorus can express interest by filling in the form on ArtHouse Jersey’s website: arthousejersey.je.
