As Seattle Opera kicks off its 2024/25 season, all eyes are on the upcoming world premiere of Jubilee, a new opera by Tazewell Thompson that explores the legacy of the historic Fisk Jubilee Singers. To engage the community in this powerful story, Seattle Opera is hosting a series of events, recitals, and discussions celebrating the influence of Black American musicians who reshaped music history.
“The story of Jubilee is such a moving one because it is about real people who led full lives and overcame significant challenges,” said Dennis Robinson Jr., Director of Programs and Partnerships at Seattle Opera. “By staging this production, we’re also honoring the legacy of Fisk University and its critical role in Black American history.”
To enhance the Jubilee experience, Seattle Opera has partnered with local artists and organizations to offer a variety of community events. These range from educational webinars and recitals to public talks and open houses, creating multiple opportunities for Seattle residents to learn about the history and contributions of Fisk University and the Fisk Jubilee Singers.
Celebrating Black Excellence in Music
The event series begins in mid-September with an eight-week online webinar titled “Face the Music,” hosted in collaboration with The Rhapsody Project. Participants will delve into the history of Black American music, exploring themes of racial injustice, the contributions of nonconformist and female artists, and the role of the African diaspora in shaping American culture.
Following the webinar, a recital series titled “Black Excellence in Music” will highlight the musical traditions of Black Americans. Featuring performances by cast members from The Fifth Avenue Theatre’s After Midnight, the program will include spirituals, musical theater pieces, and jazz standards. The four recitals will be held across various King County venues from September 11–14, with tickets available on a pay-what-you-wish basis.
Open House and Jubilee Day Celebration
On September 21, Seattle Opera will host its annual Open House, offering the public a behind-the-scenes look at Jubilee through a live stream of a rehearsal and Q&A with the creative team. Visitors will also enjoy performances from local groups such as Lowbrow Opera Collective and the Teen Vocal Studio.
In October, Seattle Opera will celebrate Jubilee Day, marking the anniversary of the Fisk Jubilee Singers’ inaugural tour in 1871. The event, held on October 6, will feature local choirs and music ensembles, including The Sound of the Northwest and Lifted! Youth Gospel Choir, as they pay tribute to the rich tradition of choral music and reflect on the ensemble’s enduring impact.
Engaging Discussions on Fisk University and the Making of Jubilee
In anticipation of the opera’s premiere, Seattle Opera will host two Opera Talks, providing audiences with insights into both the creation of Jubilee and the legacy of Fisk University. The first talk, “The Making of Jubilee” (October 11), will feature a conversation with Jubilee creator and director Tazewell Thompson, Artistic Ambassador Kenneth Kellogg, and General Director Christina Scheppelmann. The trio will discuss Thompson’s personal connection to the Fisk Jubilee Singers and how their music inspired the opera.
The second talk, “The Legacy of Fisk University” (October 12), will focus on Fisk University’s continuing influence. Guests include Dr. G. Preston Wilson Jr., the current director of the Fisk Jubilee Singers, and Marlette Buchanan, a former Jubilee singer. Both will share their experiences and reflect on the ensemble’s historical significance.
Special Matinee for Students
As part of its outreach efforts, Seattle Opera will also host a special school-day matinee performance of Jubilee on October 22. This performance will offer discounted tickets to school students and homeschool groups, ensuring younger audiences have the opportunity to experience this important cultural work.
Additional Fall Programming
Seattle Opera’s fall season includes other community-oriented initiatives, such as Opera Time, an interactive musical storytime for children aged 2–5, and support for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s on September 28, where Opera staff will participate in the event and provide assistance.
Additionally, in November, Seattle Opera will partner with Seattle Children’s Theatre to workshop Stomping Grounds, a hip-hop opera by librettist Paige Hernandez and composer Victor Simonson, exploring themes of gentrification. This production is aimed at youth and families, continuing Seattle Opera’s commitment to engaging diverse audiences.
With Jubilee at the center of its season, Seattle Opera aims to foster a deeper understanding of Black American music history and the ongoing legacy of Fisk University, while celebrating the power of opera to tell stories that resonate across generations.