University Spotlight_
Showcasing the next generation of Houston’s performing artists.
The University of Houston stands at the center of the city’s academic and creative energy. Its School of Theatre and Dance and Moores School of Music are known for exceptional stage and opera productions that showcase the skill and imagination of Houston’s rising artists. From bold reinterpretations of classics to original student works, UH’s programs consistently produce performances that rival professional stages while preparing students for careers in the arts.
The University of Houston’s performing arts programs have also earned significant recognition for their excellence. The Moores Opera Center regularly receives top honors from the National Opera Association, including first and second-place production awards for works such as Rappaccini’s Daughter and Frau Margot, and has been honored with the Houston Press MasterMind Award for its impact on the city’s arts scene. UH’s School of Theatre and Dance was named “Best College Theater” by the Houston Press and continues to receive praise for professional-quality productions and collaborations with respected guest artists. These achievements reflect the university’s strong reputation for developing artists who excel both on stage and behind the scenes.
Houston is also home to other outstanding university programs, including those at Rice University, Texas Southern University, and the University of St. Thomas. Together, these schools form a vital part of the city’s performing arts landscape, offering audiences a glimpse of the next generation of talent.
(This page is independently created and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any university or educational institution featured.)
Opera
Hobson’s Choice
University of Houston Moores Opera Center
10/23/25 - 10/26/25 at the Moores Opera House
A witty and heartwarming American opera inspired by the classic British play, this charming tale is full of humor, resilience, and unexpected romance. Set in turn-of-the-century Boston, the story follows the headstrong Maggie Hobson as she challenges her domineering father’s authority—and his refusal to let her marry. With sharp wit and unshakable determination, Maggie takes control of her future, leading to a series of comic and touching moments that celebrate love, independence, and persistence.
Description adapted from the University of Houston Moores Opera Center.
Play
Breaking the Bands
UH School of Theatre and Dance
11/20/25 - 11/21/25 at the UH School of Theatre and Dance – Jose Quintero Theatre
Set in a dystopian world divided between those with Bands and those without, this science-fiction drama explores discrimination, power, and resistance. Ida, a young Banded woman, and her mother, Ame, fight to change the rules of their divided society with help from Terrance, a man in the law, and Remo, a young Free man she loves.
Be advised: the play contains themes of discrimination, depictions of gun violence and murder, and strong language.
Description and performance details courtesy of the UH School of Theatre and Dance.
Play
Restoration Comedy
UH School of Theatre and Dance
2/27/26 - 3/6/26 at the UH School of Theatre and Dance – Jose Quintero Theatre
Amy Freed’s lively adaptation fuses two Restoration comedies—Colley Cibber’s Love’s Last Shift and John Vanbrugh’s The Relapse—into one witty, bawdy, and verbally rich farce. The adventures of rakish John Loveless, his virtuous wife Amanda, and a cast of delightfully scandalous companions unfold in a whirl of love, lust, and clever twists.
Directed by Carolyn Johnson. Description and performance details courtesy of the UH School of Theatre and Dance.
Festival
10-Minute Play Festival
UH School of Theatre and Dance
5/1/26 - 5/2/26 at the UH School of Theatre and Dance – Jose Quintero Theatre
The School of Theatre & Dance presents its 13th annual festival of original short plays, showcasing the best new work by UH student playwrights. A lively, fast-moving celebration of creativity and collaboration.
Description and performance details courtesy of the UH School of Theatre and Dance.
Play
Frankenstein
UH School of Theatre and Dance
11/14/25 - 11/23/25 at the UH School of Theatre and Dance – Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre
This dark and unflinching horror story delves deeply into the intersection of science, ethics, and both the best and the worst of humanity. Nick Dear’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s timeless gothic tale upends the audience’s perspective, focusing on the journey and development of the reanimated Creature rather than the experiments of Dr. Frankenstein. This one shift transforms the story, making the Creature an unlikely protagonist. Abandoned and betrayed by his creator, he must navigate a world full of fear, cruelty, and violence—ultimately forcing us to consider who the real monster is.
Directed by Adam Noble. Description and performance details courtesy of the UH School of Theatre and Dance.
Opera
The Magic Flute
University of Houston Moores Opera Center
2/5/26 - 2/8/26 at the Moores Opera House
Mozart’s beloved masterpiece blends adventure, comedy, and enchantment into one of opera’s most magical journeys. When Prince Tamino is sent to rescue the mysterious Pamina, he must face trials of wisdom, courage, and love, all guided by the power of music and truth. Filled with unforgettable arias and whimsical characters, this production delights audiences of all ages.
Description adapted from the University of Houston Moores Opera Center.
Musical
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
UH School of Theatre and Dance
4/10/26 - 4/17/26 at the UH School of Theatre and Dance – Lyndall Finley Wortham Theatre
Six quirky adolescents face off in a high-stakes spelling competition, revealing touching backstories and laugh-out-loud moments along the way. This fast-paced, heartfelt musical celebrates individuality, friendship, and the awkward hilarity of growing up.
Directed by Zack Steele. Description and performance details courtesy of the UH School of Theatre and Dance.