The Assyrian Arts Institute is proud to announce the world premiere of its highly anticipated new opera, Gilgamesh.
This groundbreaking production will bring to life one of the oldest and most enduring stories in human history through the powerful medium of opera. The World Premiere will take place in Los Angeles county at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts on March 28, 2026.
Gilgamesh is a bold and visionary opera that draws inspiration from the ancient Mesopotamian epic, chronicling the heroic journey of King Gilgamesh as he seeks immortality and ultimately discovers the profound truths about life, friendship, and the human condition. This new production is a testament to the Assyrian Arts Institute’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Assyrian people and sharing it with a global audience.
The opera features an original score by acclaimed 2024 Grammy nominee music composer Derrick Skye, whose music masterfully blends traditional Assyrian motifs with contemporary orchestral arrangements. The libretto, crafted by renowned operatic entrepreneur and Assyrian descendant Diana Farrell, captures the timeless essence of the Epic of Gilgamesh while infusing it with modern relevance and emotional depth. Farrell and Skye, respectively, will serve as stage director and conductor for the World Premiere.
Under the direction of Farrell, this visionary production promises to be a visual and auditory feast, with stunning set designs, intricate costumes, and innovative staging that will transport audiences to the ancient world of Mesopotamia.
“We are thrilled to bring this epic tale to the opera stage,” said Nora Betyousef Lacey, Executive Director of the Assyrian Arts Institute. “Gilgamesh is a story that has captivated the human imagination for millennia, and we are honored to share it with a new generation through this extraordinary production. This opera is a celebration of Assyrian culture and an invitation for all audiences to explore and appreciate the profound wisdom and beauty of our ancient heritage.”
The premiere of Gilgamesh will be accompanied by a series of educational and cultural events, including pre-performance lectures, panel discussions, and workshops that delve into the historical and cultural significance of the Epic of Gilgamesh and its relevance to contemporary society.
Tickets for the world premiere of Gilgamesh will go on sale in late 2025. For more information about the opera and the Assyrian Arts Institute, please subscribe to our e-newsletters to be kept up to date on this exciting production.
About the Assyrian Arts Institute:
The Assyrian Arts Institute is dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and celebration of Assyrian arts and culture. Through its diverse programs and initiatives, the Institute seeks to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of the Assyrian people, both within the Assyrian community and among the broader public.