Opera Parallèle is set to open its 17th anniversary with the world premiere of “Salt & Spirit.”

The piece is a boldly conceived theatrical work rooted in the musical traditions of the Gullah Geechee people of the coastal Carolinas and the production draws on a rare collection of resurfaced Gullah spirituals from the late nineteenth century, reimagining ancestral songs through a contemporary theatrical lens that blends classical, jazz, and traditional influences.

Developed and performed by tenor Victor Ryan Robertson in collaboration with Opera Parallèle Creative Director Brian Staufenbiel, “Salt & Spirit” will bring powerful songs into a richly theatrical world.

Clinton Smith is the onstage pianist and musical arranger.

The work will be presented between Nov. 14 and 21 2026.

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