University of Houston's Moores Opera Center announces its upcoming opera season

The Moores Opera Center at the University of Houston’s Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts has announced its 2024-25 season, featuring four performances. This marks the second season for Artistic Director Kathleen Belcher and the inaugural year for Maestro Jorge Parodi as Music Director of the Moores Opera Center.

“This year’s opera season is filled with stories about families,” says Belcher. “Family relationships come in many forms. There is an unbreakable bond between sisters in ‘Little Women.’ Puccini’s ‘Suor Angelica’ tells the story of unconditional love and unbreakable faith. ‘Gianni Schicchi’ takes a completely different view of how families can fight and get along but ultimately depicts a father’s desire to make sure his daughter is happy. ‘She Loves Me’ tells the story of the family we choose—love and support among a group of co-workers. And lastly, ‘Turandot’ is the story of an ice princess who melts for an unknown prince. During this season of love, all adversity will be overcome!”

Belcher adds, “We are excited to welcome Jorge Parodi as our new music director this season. His expertise and vision will bring a fresh perspective to our productions, enriching the experience for our audiences. Just as this season’s theme centers on stories about families, we’re thrilled to include Parodi in ours. Our opera center thrives on collaboration and shared passion, and Jorge’s addition enhances our creative community.”

The season opens in October with “Little Women.” Mark Adamo’s operatic adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel follows the March sisters as they navigate life, love, and loss. Sung in English with English and Spanish supertitles, this production brings the timeless tale to life with powerful music and heartfelt performances.

In January, audiences will enjoy a double bill of Puccini’s “Suor Angelica” and “Gianni Schicchi.” “Suor Angelica” tells a moving story of a nun’s sorrow and redemption, while “Gianni Schicchi” offers a comedic tale of trickery and inheritance. Sung in Italian with English and Spanish supertitles, these performances showcase Puccini's talent for expressing deep emotion and humor.

The lineup continues with “She Loves Me!” This musical comedy is set in a charming perfumery where two salesclerks who struggle to get along at work are unaware that they are each other’s anonymous romantic pen pals. As their true identities are revealed, the stage is set for a delightful exploration of love.

The season concludes with a gala concert performance of Puccini’s “Turandot,” presented in collaboration with UH choirs and orchestra, featuring guest artists soprano Christine Goerke and tenor Limmie Pulliam. “Turandot” is set in long-ago China where Princess Turandot poses three riddles to any prince who dares to court her; those who fail face death. When an unknown prince triumphs, Turandot faces marriage prospects that terrify her heart.

Performance Details:

Little Women:

- Oct 17-19 at 7:30 p.m., Oct 20 at 2 p.m.

- Post-show reception on opening night

- Pre-show talk on Oct 20 at 1 p.m.

Suor Angelica & Gianni Schicchi:

- Jan 30-Feb 1 at 7:30 p.m., Feb 2 at 1 p.m.

- Post-show reception on opening night

- Pre-show talk on Feb 2 at 1 p.m.

She Loves Me!:

- April 10-12 at 7:30 p.m., April 13 at 2 p.m.

- Post-show reception on opening night

Turnadot:

- April 24 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:

General Public - $25

Staff/Faculty/Alumni - $20

Seniors/Students - $20

Contact KGMCA Box Office at 713-743-3388 or purchase tickets online: https://kgmcaboxofficemusic.universitytickets.com/