Persona Arts

Persona Arts – Reimagining Opera for All

Persona Arts is a Black- and neurodivergent-led arts company based in the West Midlands, dedicated to making opera and classical music inclusive, accessible, and representative of West Midlands diverse communities.

What We Do
1. Produce high-quality opera, classical and choral performances

2. Deliver inclusive workshops and masterclasses for schools and emerging artists

3. Champion equity, diversity and inclusion across all our work

4. Collaborate with local partners to regenerate the arts post-pandemic

Our Vision
Founded by Artistic Director Byron Jackson, Persona Arts challenges traditional norms in opera by placing underrepresented voices centre stage. We work across community spaces, schools, and professional venues to reach new audiences and uplift talent.

Flagship Project
Our debut, The Flying Dutchman Community Opera, brought together over 280 participants and reached 1,000+ audience members, nearly half from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Acclaimed by critics and acknowledged by His Majesty the King, it showcased the power of inclusive, community-driven opera.

More than ever, local arts fight for its survival from the pandemic; and are keen to collaborate with other local organisations to achieve high quality opera and choral arts.