Breaking the Waves is one of the most important operas of the 21st century, a work of incredible beauty, dramatic power, and profound lessons. - Patrick Summers
Now available across major streaming platforms is the first-ever recording of Breaking the Waves, the acclaimed opera by composer Missy Mazzoli and librettist Royce Vavrek. Captured during the company's celebrated 2025 production, the recording is conducted by HGO Music Director Patrick Summers and features soprano Lauren Snouffer as Bess and bass-baritone Ryan McKinny as Jan, along with the Houston Grand Opera Orchestra and Chorus.
Based on Lars von Trier's award-winning 1996 film, Breaking the Waves tells the story of Bess McNeill, a young woman whose devotion and sacrifices in her marriage challenge the boundaries between faith, love, and fidelity. Since its 2016 world premiere, the opera has earned international acclaim for Mazzoli's luminous score and Vavrek's emotionally compelling libretto, establishing itself as one of the landmark operas of the 21st century.
This Breaking the Waves recording is part of HGO’s expanding commitment to building and sharing its catalogue of recordings of major performances and company-commissioned works. Recent recordings from the Houston Grand Opera label include composer Daniel Catán and librettist Marcela Fuentes-Berain's Florencia en el Amazonas, released earlier this year.
For more information, please contact Peggy Monastra.
