Chief Minister Calls on Theatre Executives to Drop Tech Upgrade Plans

Jersey’s Chief Minister has called on the management of the Opera House to begin staging performances at the recently refurbished theatre, despite an ongoing dispute over new technical equipment.

Deputy Lyndon Farnham has insisted that the existing audio and visual equipment is still functional and sufficient for productions, following a £12 million taxpayer-funded refurbishment.

Last month, theatre officials announced they needed to raise an additional £1.5 million by the end of March to install what they described as "essential" technology to attract touring productions. The upgrade was not included in the government’s Economic Development budget for the refurbishment.

In response, several performance groups penned an open letter to the Chief Minister, voicing their concerns over the future of the venue.

During a recent States Assembly session, Deputy Montfort Tadier asked whether the government would consider matching the £1 million the Opera House had already secured towards the cost of the new equipment.

Deputy Farnham maintained that an audit confirmed the existing kit is "useable and fully functional," though he acknowledged it is outdated.

"The Opera House is capable of staging shows, and I think it’s a huge disappointment that the current management is unwilling to do so," he said. "They have instead taken the stance that nothing will happen unless they get all the new equipment they are asking for."

He acknowledged that while the venue may not be able to host large-scale West End productions immediately, it should be open in time for the Liberation 80 celebrations. The Chief Minister hinted that government funding for new equipment could be forthcoming but stressed that proper procurement processes must be followed.

"We want the Opera House to have the best equipment, but it must be purchased responsibly. We need to conduct research, go out to tender, and ensure we’re getting the right deal. I am sure the government will contribute towards that equipment in due course."

In the meantime, he urged theatre bosses to reconsider their stance. "In the interests of Jersey and the taxpayers who funded this refurbishment, the Opera House should be putting on performances. They would have our full support if they were to do so."

Although construction work was completed in December 2024, the venue’s reopening has been postponed until autumn 2025.