Civil War opera 'Intelligence' brings history to life in Norfolk

The opera tells the story of a white woman and the enslaved woman she recruited to spy on the Confederate White House.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:15am

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Virginia Opera is staging the world premiere of the opera "Intelligence," which tells the story of Elizabeth Van Lew, a pro-Union white woman, and Mary Jane Bowser, the enslaved woman she recruited to spy on the Confederate White House during the Civil War. The opera, composed by Jake Heggie with a libretto by Gene Scheer, features a cast of both real-life historical figures and fictional characters, and is set against a backdrop of quilt squares representing the patchwork of guilt and beauty in the story.

Why it matters

The opera shines a light on the little-known story of Van Lew and Bowser, two women who risked everything to gather intelligence that helped the Union cause during the Civil War. It also explores themes of race, power, and the complexities of the war through a local lens, as the opera will be performed in Norfolk and Richmond, Virginia.

The details

The opera features a cast of seven characters, five of whom are based on real historical figures. Jacqueline Echols McCarley stars as the enslaved Mary Jane Bowser, who is planted in the Confederate White House by her mistress, Elizabeth Van Lew, played by mezzo-soprano Ashley Dixon. The production also includes fictional characters like the supernatural Lucinda, played by Cierra Byrd, and the oppressive Travis Briggs, portrayed by baritone Craig Irvin. The opera's score, directed by Adam Turner, incorporates African-inspired elements and dance sequences.

  • The opera will have its world premiere in Norfolk on January 30, 2026.
  • Additional performances will be held in Richmond and Fairfax, Virginia after the Norfolk run ends on February 1, 2026.

The players

Elizabeth Van Lew

A pro-Union white woman who recruited her enslaved servant, Mary Jane Bowser, to spy on the Confederate White House during the Civil War.

Mary Jane Bowser

An enslaved woman who was planted in the Confederate White House by her mistress, Elizabeth Van Lew, to gather intelligence for the Union cause.

Jake Heggie

The composer of the opera "Intelligence." Heggie has written numerous successful operas, including "Three Decembers."

Gene Scheer

The librettist of the opera "Intelligence." Scheer has collaborated with Heggie on several operas.

Adam Turner

The conductor who will lead the Virginia Symphony Orchestra in the production of "Intelligence" at the Virginia Opera.

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What they’re saying

“Why isn't Virginia Opera doing it first?”

— Adam Turner, Conductor

“a historical fiction”

— Gene Scheer, Librettist

What’s next

The opera will be performed in Richmond and Fairfax, Virginia after the Norfolk run ends on February 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The opera "Intelligence" shines a light on the little-known story of Elizabeth Van Lew and Mary Jane Bowser, two women who risked everything to gather intelligence that helped the Union cause during the Civil War. The production explores themes of race, power, and the complexities of the war through a local lens, making it a must-see for history buffs and opera lovers alike.