Richard Wagner

Parsifal

About

Overview

Wagnerites from around the world will descend upon Houston when HGO presents Parsifal, the composer’s final opera, full of shimmeringly beautiful music and spiritual and philosophical exploration. The revered masterpiece takes audiences on a mystical journey through a realm where time has no meaning and a group of knights are trying to protect the Holy Grail and their wounded king, Amfortas. He can only be healed by an innocent fool—the titular protagonist—but first Parsifal must undertake a quest to reclaim the Holy Spear, enduring tests including an attempted seduction by a bevy of gorgeous women. The opera will be presented in a stunning, sensual, colorful production from Tony Award-winning director John Caird. HGO Principal Guest Conductor Eun Sun Kim leads a cast of extraordinary Wagnerians including tenor Russell Thomas as Parsifal, soprano Elena Pankratova as Kundry, bass Kwangchul Youn as Gurnemanz, and bass-baritone Ryan McKinny as Amfortas.

Details

Location

Brown Theater

Ticket pricing

$25 - $210

Run time

Four hours and 45 minutes, including two intermissions

Language

Sung in German with projected English subtitles

Credits

Music

Richard Wagner

Libretto

Richard Wagner

Production

A production of Lyric Opera of Chicago, generously made possible by an Anonymous Donor, The Elizabeth Morse Genius Trust, The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust, Marlys A. Beider, and The Kenneth L. Harder Trust.  

Sponsors

Grand Guarantor

Janice Barrow

Louise G. Chapman

Guarantors

Mr. John G. Turner and Mr. Jerry G. Fischer

Drs. Liz Grimm and Jack Roth

Grand Underwriter

The Brown Foundation, Inc.

Matt Healey

Beth Madison

Drs. Rachel and Warren A. Ellsworth IV in memory of Warren A. "Chip" Ellsworth III

Underwriter

Muffy and Mike McLanahan

James M. Trimble and Sylvia Barnes

John C. Tweed

Mary Lee and Jim Wallace

Artists
Events & Resources

Start the Experience

Quick Start Guide

Get a taste of the experience to-come with an introduction to the story, key music notes, and fun facts about the production through our Quick Start Guide. 

New to opera?

Let your opera journey begin with our tips for first-timers, FAQ’s, and ways to make your evening at the Wortham unforgettable.

Opera Cues

Dive into our house magazine for all things opera from intimate reflections from creators to community news and more. 

Opera insights

Find a deeper connection with the opera with Opera Insights. Join us in the theater 45 minutes before any production for a lecture and immersive conversation.

Friday, Jan. 19, 2024 @ 5pm
Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024 @ 1pm
Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 @ 5pm
Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024 @ 5pm
Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024 @ 1pm

Events

Join us for events surrounding the performances, all curated to expand your connection to the production and socialize with fellow opera enthusiasts. 

Opening Night for Young Professionals

Mixers and networking for young professionals.

Friday, Jan. 19, 2024

Exclusive for ONYP Subscribers

A Journey Through Time