(Photo credit: Dahlia Katz)

OrpheusPDX and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Portland (MSSP) have joined forces for the upcoming performances Luna Pearl Woolf and Royce Vavrek’s “Jacqueline.”

The opera is based on the life of legendary cellist Jacqueline du Prè, whose life and career was dramatically altered by the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS). It explores themes of resilience, the human spirit, and the challenges of living with chronic illness. Soprano Marnie Breckenridge and cellist Matt Haimovitz, a protégé of du Pre, perform. The opera is sung in English with English surtitles.

“We are so happy to promote this inspiring partnership with OrpheusPDX. Jacqueline brings much-needed visibility to the experience of living with MS, and we’re honored to be part of an event that uses the power of art to raise awareness and foster empathy in our community,” said Tracy Neu, Executive Director of the MSSP.

The collaboration between OrpheusPDX and MSSP will include pre-show talks, a post-performance Q&A with artists and audience members including guests from MSSP, and an opportunity to learn more about MS and the services MSSP provides. OrpheusPDX is offering a discount of 50 percent to all members of MSSP.

Performances are scheduled for Aug. 23 and 24, 2025 at Lincoln Hall in Portland, OR.

Read Related Stories

• World Premiere of ‘Phoenix: A Musical Testimony of Women’s Rights Struggle in Iran’ Opens For International Women’s Day

• OrpheusPDX 2023 Review: Dark Sisters

• Tapestry Opera to Present World Premiere of Opera Inspired by Jacqueline Du Pré

• Q & A: Molly Noori Discusses Her Non-Profit ‘The Chronicled Voice’ & Experiences With Chronic Illnesses