History and Heritage
From fires and rebuilds to standing ovations, the Jersey Opera House has been at the heart of island life since 1900. Our stage has hosted stars, premieres, and generations of local talent — a living landmark shaped by the stories it holds.
1900
Fire and Rebirth
The original Opera House, first built in 1865, is destroyed by fire. Local architect Adrian C. M. Curry is commissioned to oversee the design of the new theatre, with guidance and inspiration from the celebrated theatre architect Frank Matcham. Together, they create a grand, elegant space with rich Edwardian detailing.
The new Opera House opens on 9 July 1900, just five months after the fire — an astonishing feat — with the comic opera The Telephone Girl.
1921
Second Fire and Restoration
Tragedy strikes again as a second major fire severely damages the interior. Once more, the theatre is rebuilt and reopened, reflecting the island’s strong commitment to its cultural institutions.
1931
Cinema Conversion
The rise of film sees the Opera House converted into a cinema, in line with global trends. While the stage remains, live performance takes a back seat for several decades as the building becomes part of the Odeon cinema circuit.
1940-1945
The German Occupation
During the Occupation of Jersey in World War II, the Opera House is one of the few entertainment venues allowed to remain open under German control. It continues to screen films and host occasional local performances, providing a rare outlet for morale and artistic expression during this difficult time.
1945
Liberation and Revival
With Liberation in May 1945, the Opera House becomes a symbol of the island’s return to freedom. It gradually reintroduces live performances, with local and touring productions returning to the stage.
1959
Return to Live Performance
After nearly three decades as primarily a cinema, the Opera House re-establishes itself as a live theatre. Audiences return for a diverse programme of plays, concerts, and variety shows.
1970s-1990s
Community Stage and Wear
The theatre plays host to everything from school shows to major tours, but decades of use take their toll. By the late 1990s, the building is in urgent need of repair.
1998-2000
Major Refurbishment and Centenary
A £6 million renovation project is launched, restoring much of the Opera House’s original architectural splendour while modernising its facilities. The project includes structural work, improved accessibility, and restored decorative features.
The refurbished Opera House reopens in 2000, just in time to celebrate its centenary as one of the island’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
2000s-2010s
A New Century of Culture
Over the next two decades, Jersey Opera House presents a vibrant mix of theatre, dance, music, comedy, film, and talks — from West End hits to local productions and international touring artists. Stars including Dame Judi Dench, Alan Ayckbourn, and John Nettles perform here, and the venue becomes a creative home for Jersey’s own artists and theatre companies.
2020-2024
Temporary Closure and Transformation
The venue closes for essential repairs and refurbishment, supported by public investment. This period allows for much-needed upgrades to the building, including structural repairs, new auditorium seating, roof repairs and improvements to the front-of-house spaces.
2025
Reopening and a New Chapter
Marking a vibrant new chapter, 2025 sees the Jersey Opera House reopen its doors following an extensive refurbishment. With upgraded facilities, enhanced accessibility, and a renewed commitment to showcasing the very best in local and international performance, the Opera House proudly reclaims its place at the heart of Jersey’s cultural life.
Explore upcoming theatre, music, comedy, dance and more. Whatever your mood, there’s a show for it at the Jersey Opera House.
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Everything you need to know before you arrive — from how to get here to accessibility and what to expect on the day.