New Wave Opera will present the world premiere of “Deep Water” on June 18–21 at the Boiler Room Theatre in Lincoln Hall at Portland State University.

The opera tells the tale of two queer teenage companions, Val and Bluejay, as they chronicle the collapse of humanity during the Anthropocene, serving as witnesses and documentarians who find resilience through love and play.

Stage direction is by Christine Freije, with music direction by Stephen Lewis and lighting design by Samantha Kemp. Visual artist Eli Cannon contributed a large goblin shark sculpture crafted from recycled materials as a central scenic element.

The cast is led by soprano Lindsey Rae Johnson as Val and mezzo-soprano Phoebe Gildea as Bluejay, with soprano Gina Adorno and mezzo-soprano Allison Kim-Yok Knotts in supporting roles.

The June 21 matinee will include ASL interpretation, supported by Portland Arts & Culture’s Arts Access Fund. Running time is 70 minutes without intermission.