Rave Reviews for James Gaffigan and Houston Grand Opera’s “Porgy and Bess”

Photo credit: Alana Campbell

Houston Press writes:

“Porgy and Bess sounds great under maestro James Gaffigan, and the chorus under Richard Bado is superb – rich and lustrous like a tapestry.”

Texas Classical Review writes:

“The HGO Orchestra, conducted by James Gaffigan, embraced the delicacy of Gershwin’s peaceful moments—such as ‘Summertime’—as readily as the snappiness of the cheerful numbers, the warmth of the lyricism and the drive and ferocity of the hurricane scene.”

Houston Chronicle writes:

“The bursting energy of the opera's recurring xylophone leitmotif – played brilliantly by percussionist Yoon Jun Kim and just one of many highlights in the HGO Orchestra's snappy playing under the direction of James Gaffigan – sets the tone of Porgy's buoyant community.”

Broadway World writes:

“This Porgy and Bess will be one for the ages, and one will be remiss for not attending.”

“If there was ever any evidence that the performing arts in Houston are at a peak, one should look no further than Houston Grand Opera.”

“The production elements of this Porgy and Bess truly elevate it to new heights.”