Houston Grand Opera is lighting up the fall with a grand new season! Susannah, the deeply American masterpiece by opera icon Carlisle Floyd, opens HGO’s 2026–27 season, “Written in the Stars,” at the Wortham Theater Center’s Brown Auditorium on October 23.
Set in the hills of Tennessee, this beloved opera blends revival hymns and Appalachian folksong into a moving story of innocence, judgment, and resilience — with Floyd’s own libretto written in colorful regional dialect. This new staging comes from celebrated soprano-turned-director Patricia Racette, with HGO Music Director James Gaffigan on the podium.
Soprano Sylvia D’Eramo, who won Houston’s heart last season in Silent Night, makes her role debut as Susannah. Leading baritone Rod Gilfry brings gravitas to the Reverend Olin Blitch, joined by rising tenors Bille Bruley and Aaron Blake as Sam and Little Bat.
Five performances run from Friday, October 23 through Sunday, November 8, 2026, including Military Appreciation Day on November 8. Free pre-show talks, Opera Insights, happen 45 minutes before curtain for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the music.
An unforgettable season opener, straight from the heart of Houston’s cultural district — tickets are on sale now at HGO.org! Photo: Houston Grand Opera
