Houston-commissioned opera 'Intelligence' earns Grammy nod
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"Intelligence" had its world premier October 2023. Photo: Michael Bishop, courtesy of Houston Grand Opera
The Houston Grand Opera is up for a Grammy this weekend — the first nomination in more than 30 years.
Why it matters: HGO's nomination for Best Opera Recording for "Intelligence," a company-commissioned opera, highlights a piece that took creative risks and centered Black voices.
- National award nominations add prestige for one of Houston's signature cultural institutions and the city's arts scene.
Zoom in: "Intelligence," by composer Jake Heggie and librettist Gene Scheer, was recorded during its 2023 world premiere at the Wortham Theater Center and released in August 2025.
- The opera is inspired by a true story, following two women spies in the Civil War: Mary Jane Bowser, born into slavery, and Elizabeth Van Lew, from a prominent Confederate family.
The intrigue: "Intelligence" was the first time in company history the opera house launched a season with a world premiere.
- The production leans heavily into dance, which is not always common. HGO bet on "Intelligence" by deviating from the norm.
What they're saying: "This GRAMMY nomination celebrates not only the opera's artistic power, but also the extraordinary performance from our cast and the virtuosity of our HGO Orchestra, who together brought this brilliant piece to life," HGO general director and CEO Khori Dastoor said in a statement.
- "I hope the album continues to spark conversation about who gets remembered, and why," said Heggie in a statement.
The opera house was also recognized with Blanton Alspaugh's nomination in the Producer of the Year, Classical category for "Intelligence" and "Werther."
- "Werther", which was brought back to HGO after four decades, is about an obsessive poet in a forbidden romance.
Stunning stat: HGO has won a Tony Award, two Grammy Awards, and three Emmy Awards. It is the only opera company to win all three honors.
How to experience: Both HGO operas are available in physical and digital formats, including on Apple Music and Spotify.