SHEFFIELD – The Tennessee Valley Art Association proudly presents the world premiere of
Faith: a Folk Opera, an original work by Shoals native composer Jeremy Smith, debuting on
the historic Ritz stage this April.
Set inside a remote Appalachian church, Faith blends the emotional intensity of opera with the
Jeremy Smith
musical traditions of Southern gospel and Appalachian folk. The result is a haunting Southern
Gothic tale that explores devotion, obsession, and the devastating consequences when faith
becomes something darker.
Composed by Jeremy Smith, the production draws deeply from the culture and musical heritage
of the Appalachian South, weaving soaring operatic vocals with raw, spiritual harmonies and folk
storytelling. The story unfolds within a rural congregation where belief, power, and desperation
collide—revealing how easily reverence can give way to ruin.
The Tennessee Valley Art Association is honored to bring this powerful new work to the stage at
the Historic Ritz Theatre, continuing its commitment to showcasing innovative and original
productions from regional artists.
Performance Dates:
● Friday, April 3 at 7:00 PM
● Saturday, April 4 at 7:00 PM
Both performances will take place at the Historic Ritz Theatre in downtown Sheffield, Alabama.
Tickets and additional information are available through the Tennessee Valley Art Association
and the Historic Ritz Theatre box office.
Media Release/Gabriel Paduganan
Media and Marketing Specialist/TVAA
