The Grief Opera

The Grief Opera, a moving musical journey through grief and loss, comes to Christ Church, Swindon. On Saturday 1st November 2025, Christ Church in Old Town, Swindon, will host The Grief Opera, a powerful production that uses music and storytelling to explore one of life’s deepest challenges: grief.

Blending classical, jazz, opera, concert and musical theatre, The Grief Opera follows a father’s final conversations with his son and the heart-rending aftermath of loss. It’s both an intimate portrayal of bereavement and a wider reflection on the enduring presence of grief in human life.

The Grief Opera - the performers — The Grief Opera – the performers

An unusual production

This unique production is not rooted in religious themes, making it accessible to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Its creators hope the performance will not only offer comfort to the bereaved. But also spark vital, potentially life-saving conversations about mental health and suicide. The leading cause of death among young men.

Nigel Linacre, who wrote the libretto after losing his son in 2021, describes the work as ‘giving voice to the unspeakable.’ Nigel is also the Founder Director of the water charity WellBoring. He recieved the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2023 for his charitable service.

Vladimir Miller is the composer of the music. Vladimir is an Anglo-Russian contemporary composer and band leader known for his expressive and genre-crossing style.

Acclaimed artists are performing the production. Amongst them:

Tenor Neil Latchman
Mezzo-soprano Keri Farish
Soprano Grace Dowdeswell with narration by Ashley Green and a distinguished ensemble of musicians.

‘The Grief Opera opens up a space of recognition, compassion, and healing. By engaging with another’s story, people often find the courage to face their own grief, gently and indirectly,’ said organiser Chris Smith of Christ Church.