It might by Lynn Wyatt's debut on the big stage but the reviews are in — she's a hit in Houston Grand Opera's production of Show Boat at Wortham Theater Center. No matter that she appears in the final scene only or that her role as "the lady on the levee" has only a line or two, the fans love her.
The role is traditionally played by great personality figures and as Patrick Summers, HGO artistic and music director, told us in the fall, "For HGO’s production, it's important to me to have the part played by an iconic personality who has a long association with this city and with this company." Lynn accepted and the rest is showbiz history.
Several performances into the production, Lynn was still somewhat breathless on Monday over her debut. "It's been fun. It's been exhilarating. It's been exciting," she said. "And it's also been nerve-wracking. I mean, I'm up there on stage with 150 professionals. Talk about pressure!"
In a twist on the typical diva attitude, Lynn loves the costume that was designed specifically for her. She was told that that's contrary to most opera stars who usually hate their costumes.
Performances continue through Feb. 9.
Lynn Wyatt in the final act of Houston Grand Opera's Show Boat plays "the lady on the levee" and the audience loves her.
