Houston Grand Opera to Launch 2026-27 Season

The company opens its new season this October with a production honoring the centennial of composer Carlisle Floyd.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Opera

Bold vector editorial illustration of a pair of gold opera glasses on a velvet seat, evoking the elegance of the performing arts.
The Houston Grand Opera opens its 2026-27 season on October 23, featuring a celebratory production of Carlisle Floyd's classic opera Susannah. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you plan to attend live opera or theater performances in your community this year?

Houston Grand Opera is set to open its 2026-27 season on October 23, 2026, with a performance of Carlisle Floyd's opera Susannah. The upcoming schedule includes six mainstage productions hosted at the Wortham Theater Center.

Why it matters

The new season marks a period of organizational growth and honors the centennial of Carlisle Floyd. It also introduces James Gaffigan, who begins his tenure as Music Director Designate for the company.

The Houston Grand Opera record label was recognized for its achievements by winning the 2026 GRAMMY Award for Best Opera Recording for the opera Intelligence.

The players

Khori Dastoor

She serves as the General Director and CEO of Houston Grand Opera.

James Gaffigan

He is the incoming Music Director Designate for the 2026-27 season before assuming the full Music Director role.

Patrick Summers

He currently holds the title of Music Director Emeritus at the opera company.

Carlisle Floyd

He was a noted American composer whose work is being celebrated during this centennial year.

The details

Under the leadership of General Director and CEO Khori Dastoor, the season features a varied repertoire alongside themed experience nights. The organization is providing various ticket incentives, including a 10% discount for military members and 20% savings for groups.

Timeline

  1. October 2026 marks the official start of the 2026-27 season.

  2. December 12, 2026, is the scheduled date for the Carols on the Green holiday celebration.

  3. February 2027 features Family Day and the Giving Voice concert.

  4. May 2027 concludes the mainstage season schedule.

  5. The 2027-28 season will see James Gaffigan begin his formal tenure as Music Director.

Industry Dynamics

The season builds on the artistic momentum established by the company's 2026 GRAMMY Award for Best Opera Recording for the opera Intelligence. This success underscores the organization's current trajectory as a premier producer of new and influential operatic works.

The company offers Under 40 Friday tickets priced at $40 to increase accessibility for younger attendees. Military members and large groups can also utilize specific discounts of 10% and 20% respectively when booking their tickets.

The takeaway

The 2026-27 season highlights the ongoing evolution of the company under its new music leadership. Residents and visitors are encouraged to utilize group and military discounts to experience the varied repertoire scheduled at the Wortham Theater Center.

Further reading

Find more information on local performances by visiting the Opera section.

More information

For a full schedule and to book seats, visit the Houston Grand Opera ticket and information page.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Broadway World.

Live Poll

Do you plan to attend live opera or theater performances in your community this year?