Published 2 March 2026
For over a century, the Jersey Opera House has been the beating heart of Jersey’s cultural scene – a place where star-studded casts and incredible local talent have taken to the stage for some unforgettable performances. Generations of islanders and visitors alike have been captivated within its walls, enjoying everything from razor-sharp stand-up and dazzling cabaret to show-stopping West End musicals. Our tiny island more than punches above its weight when it comes to the calibre of talent showcased at this iconic venue.
Following extensive refurbishments completed in October 2025, the Jersey Opera House is once again ready to raise the curtain. So take your seat, settle in, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained.
The history of Jersey Opera House
The story of the beautiful Jersey Opera House we know today started back in 1900. Local architect Adolphus Curry was commissioned to oversee the design of Jersey Opera House after the original building, which was built in 1865, was destroyed by fire. Curry worked alongside celebrated theatre architect Frank Matcham, and together they created an elegant space with Edwardian detailing. Most remarkably, the new Jersey Opera House was opened by Jersey-born actress Lillie Langtry just five months after the previous building burnt down. Langtry went on to perform in The Degenerates, which was the first play produced on the new premises. Locals believe the theatre is still haunted by her ghost today…
Unfortunately, a second fire caused significant damage to the building’s interior in 1921, but the community moved quickly to rebuild and restore their precious cultural institution.
To help the Jersey Opera House keep up with global trends, it was converted into a cinema in 1931 in response to the rise of film. It was at this point that the building became part of the Odeon cinema circuit, with live performances taking a back seat for several decades.
Jersey Opera House
Like many historic buildings in Jersey, the Opera House is part of the island’s World War II story. During the Occupation, it was one of the few entertainment venues which was permitted to stay open, albeit under Nazi control. This made it an outlet for morale and artistic expression during an incredibly difficult time.
By 1959, Jersey Opera House moved away from its cinema focus, reestablishing itself as a place where audiences could enjoy a variety of plays, concerts and other shows.
Jersey Opera House
The next few decades saw the Jersey Opera House cement itself as one of Jersey’s most treasured cultural landmarks. After several refurbishments, we’ve arrived in the present day, and the venue is more vibrant and accessible than ever, with cutting-edge facilities and a diverse programme of events. Stars including Dame Judi Dench, Alan Ayckbourn and John Nettles have taken to the stage here, not to mention Jersey’s own artists and theatre companies, who call the Jersey Opera House their creative home.
Jersey Opera House, Callum Thorne
What’s on at Jersey Opera House?
From musicals and laugh-out-loud comedy nights to live concerts and dramatic theatrical performances, there’s always something to captivate at Jersey’s most beloved theatre. Take a look at what’s on and start planning your visit.
Seven Drunken Nights
Jersey Opera House
Proudly celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of The Dubliners is back for 2026! Performed by a phenomenal cast of Irish musicians, the show features classics like Whiskey in the Jar and The Irish Rover - guaranteed to get toes tapping.
Apr 25 2026 ‐ Apr 26 2026
National Theatre Live: Hamlet
Jersey Opera House
The Jersey Opera House will be screening the National Theatre Live Hamlet, by William Shakespeare and directed by Robert Hastie.
Mar 13 2026
The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Jersey Opera House
Direct from the West End, the Olivier Award nominated smash hit show, The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns on tour.
Mar 28 2026 ‐ Mar 29 2026
Hidden – Motionhouse
Jersey Opera House
Internationally renowned dance-circus company Motionhouse returns with its jaw-dropping production, Hidden. Experience a powerful blend of artforms, where breathtaking dance melts effortlessly into thrilling circus feats. Hidden explores how, in an increasingly divided world, light can come out of darkness in times of crisis.
Apr 23 2026 ‐ Apr 24 2026
The D-Day Darlings Victorious
Jersey Opera House
Following the success of their VE Day 80 tour and triumphant performances at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, Britain’s beloved songbirds, The D-Day Darlings, proudly present their brand-new stage spectacular, Victorious, fronted by founder and lead singer Katie Ashby.
May 07 2026
Tom Davis: Spudgun
Tom Davis is back on the road, firing out his freshly cooked observations on life's hot topics.
Jun 06 2026
Dantastic’s Easter Egg-stravaganza!
Jersey Opera House
The Dantastic team are back for an extra special, high energy, musical, panto-style show bursting with laughter, music, and Easter magic!
Apr 18 2026 ‐ Apr 19 2026
The Last Laugh
Jersey Opera House
Three Legendary Comedians… One very unusual dressing room. DYING EASY IS EASY, COMEDY IS HARD!
Aug 12 2026 ‐ Aug 15 2026
The Makings of a Murderer
Jersey Opera House
Join Peter Bleksley, a founding member of Scotland Yard’s undercover unit and former star of Channel 4’s Hunted, as he lifts the lid on the most dangerous and hidden aspects of murder investigations.
Mar 17 2026
Open Studio with Ballet D’Jèrri
Ballet D'Jèrri
Ballet d’Jèrri’s Open Studios are informal evenings that invite you inside the creative process. Join us inside our studio at Jersey Opera House for an up-close look at new work in development — from early sketches to nearly finished pieces.
Mar 04 2026 ‐ May 15 2026
The Rugby Pod Live
Join Jim Hamilton and Andy Goode for a special Rugby Pod Live show at the stunning Jersey Opera House, brought to you by nudge and proudly sponsored by Whisky 1901. Bringing all the stories and rugby chat from the world's biggest rugby podcast, expect laughs and beers as the lads take the stage in one of Jersey's most iconic buildings. Age: 12+
Mar 18 2026
Horrible Histories
Terrible Tudors + Awful Egyptians
Terrible Tudors + Awful Egyptians We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for two amazing shows with Horrible Histories live on stage! Using actors and eye-popping 3D special effects, these astounding shows are guaranteed to thrill you and your children.
May 21 2026 ‐ May 23 2026
LIMF 2026 | “Close to You” with Sir Willard White
Music in Action
Join Sir Willard White and the Jersey Chamber Orchestra for a sparkling Liberation Day celebration - a joyful mix of British melodies, Broadway hits, and timeless classics. One of the great voices of our time, Sir Willard White has starred on the world’s largest opera stages, captivating audiences with his rich voice and magnetic presence.
May 09 2026
Held in the Tide: A New Opera for Jersey
ArtHouse Jersey
Held in the Tide is a powerful new contemporary opera created with and for the people of Jersey. Premiering at the newly reopened Jersey Opera House, this one-hour production offers a fresh, welcoming way into opera, whether you’re a seasoned theatre-goer or completely new to the artform.
Mar 26 2026 ‐ Mar 27 2026
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Dinner and a show?
Based in the heart of St. Helier, Jersey Opera House is just a stone’s throw from a range of top restaurants and bars. Here are the best places to grab a bite to eat or some pre-show drinks. Alternatively, the Jersey Opera House’s very own Foyer Bar is open before performances and during intervals.
The Adelphi Lounge
A traditional town pub with an ‘out of town’ warmth and an even warmer welcome. Overlooking Parade Gardens, the Adelphi with its mix of modern and traditional décor and just a stone’s throw from the Opera House is popular for pre-theatre dinner and drinks with both locals and visitors alike.
La Taverne
Something of a culinary institution in Jersey. Set on the quaint outer edge of St. Helier's town centre, the little French/Italian La Taverne invites guests to enjoy traditional fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Where excellence meets experience; La Taverne is one of the islands' longest standing restaurants.
Tassili at Grand Jersey Hotel and Spa
Grand Jersey’s fine dining 4 AA Rosette restaurant, Tassili, offers an exclusive dining experience . Taking you on a journey of culinary discovery, exploring ingredients from the rich seas surrounding Jersey, to the mountains of the Pyrénées. Offering seasonal and regional dishes made with creativity and served with a touch of flair.
Izakaya
Welcome to Izakaya, where Japanese-Peruvian fusion meets modern dining. Perfectly located in the heart of Liberty Wharf, we bring together fresh flavors and a relaxed, contemporary vibe that's ideal for a (quick) lunch or a stylish weekend get-together.
Kyoto Restobar
Kyoto is a beautiful sushi restaurant with friendly and attentive staff, offering a great menu in the heart of St. Helier. Along with sushi, we serve a variety of other dishes from our Izakaya menu, plus takeaway is available!
Casa Mia
Welcome to Casa Mia, where laughter, stories, good food and fine wine come together. We are your local Italian restaurant serving simple, tasty cooking using high-quality ingredients. We source locally from our beautiful island whenever possible and import key ingredients directly from Italy. Great hospitality is at the heart of what we do...
So Bar
Offering al fresco seating, which is always buzzing with the after-work crowd, so make sure you get there early to grab a seat. Located in the heart of Jersey’s business centre, with its modern, spacious and comfortable feel, So Bar on the Esplanade attracts a variety of people, locals and visitors alike.
El Gato Gordo
Visit El Gato Gordo in Liberty Wharf for Spanish wine and delicious food! We’re talking tapas galore, the classic you know and love, plus our own delicious twists. Think small plates bursting with flavour and larger platters perfect for sharing (or not, we won’t judge).
The Blind Pig
Step through the hidden door and discover The Blind Pig - Jersey's secret sanctuary of vintage elegance. Tucked away from the bustle of town, this speakeasy-style hideaway offers space to breathe, relax, and indulge in a touch of 1920s magic.
Pêtchi Restaurant & Wine Bar
Pêtchi is a wood-fired grill restaurant and wine bar inspired by the seascapes of the Channel Islands with a nod towards the Basque Country. It’s all about the heady joy of a good meal that draws on our reverence for the produce of our land and sea.
The Rigatoni
Nestled in the heart of St Helier, The Rigatoni offers a contemporary twist on classic Italian dining. Our charming al fresco setting brings a slice of the Mediterranean to your table, perfect for any occasion. Indulge in a menu that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Italy, featuring everything from tantalizing starters to artisanal pizzas + pasta.
Want to stay near by?
Why rush? These centrally located St. Helier hotels are just a short stroll from Jersey Opera House, giving you plenty of time to get ready and soak up the pre-show atmosphere.
After the curtain falls
A great night at the theatre deserves a great nightcap. Luckily, some of St. Helier’s finest bars and pubs are just a short stroll from Jersey Opera House – the perfect way to round off an unforgettable evening.
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