The University of Houston’s Moores School of Music has announced its 2026-27 season.

The season will feature four compelling productions that span beloved musical theater, fairy-tale fantasy, Baroque drama and a 20th century operatic masterpiece.

In a statement, Kathleen Belcher, professor of practice in opera and artistic director of the Moores Opera Center said, “This season examines how people navigate the forces that define their lives. These works invite us to look closely at the boundaries between the individual and society. Each opera presents characters searching for acceptance, justice, love or understanding while facing powerful forces beyond their control. Together, they remind us that opera’s greatest stories are not simply about extraordinary people but about the communities that shape them and the choices that define our shared humanity.”

The season opens with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel,” a profoundly American meditation on love, violence, forgiveness, and the possibility of change.

Performance Dates: Oct. 22-25, 2026

The production of the season will be Humperdinck’s “Hänsel and Gretel.” The opera explores how young people confront fear, uncertainty and temptation while discovering courage within themselves.

Performance Dates: Feb. 4-7, 2027

Händel’s “Oreste” will be presented in partnership with Ars Lyrica Houston. This work is inspired by ancient Greek mythology and examines the devastating consequences of violence, vengeance and inherited trauma.

Performance Dates: April 16 and 18, 2027

Britten’s “Peter Grimes” concludes the season as a benefit concert performance. Anthony Dean Griffey and Latonia Moore will join forces with the UH symphonies, choruses and student soloists for this special concert presentation.

Performance Dates: April 24, 2027