Wes Landry: a musical journey to the heart of Houston’s artistic community | Arts

Wes Landry, a longtime resident of The Heights in Houston, has spent more than two decades deeply embedded in the city’s vibrant arts scene. His artistic journey, shaped by the support and collaboration of local colleagues and friends, reflects his deep connection to the cultural fabric of Houston.

“Houston is such a vibrant place for the arts,” Landry shares enthusiastically. “I was drawn to it as a student, earned my master’s degree in music at UH, and over 20 years later, my entire adult artistic life is closely tied to this incredible city. The incredible teachers and friends I’ve met and performed with here have shaped me every step of the way.

From performing at Opera in the Heights to serving as music director of UMC St. Mark’s in the Heights since 2014, Landry’s artistic endeavors are deeply rooted in the local community. His involvement with the Houston Grand Opera (HGO) Chorus for 18 seasons constitutes an important chapter in his career. It was here that Landry not only honed her craft, but also found love when she met her husband.

One memorable experience that resonates deeply with Landry is the premiere of an evening of songs by Houston composers, set to texts written by local veterans.

“A lot of these people had never told their stories,” Landry recalls. “By putting their stories – which are funny, tragic and uplifting – to music, we were able to present them to the public in such an honest and open way. The music created the space for these stories to be told. That’s the role of art in any community – to tell stories in all sorts of ways so we can get to know each other better.”

Landry earned his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in vocal performance from the University of Houston and his Bachelor of Music from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Despite his extensive experience, this year marks his first performance with the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston, where he will perform the role of Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd in “Ruddigore” at Cullen Performance Hall.

In addition to performing, Landry’s “day job” involves juggling multiple part-time roles as a professional musician. He has sung several roles at Opera in the Heights, performed with professional choirs like Cantare Houston, and participated in musical theater productions at Main Street Theater and Summer Stock at St. Luke’s UMC. At St. Mark’s UMC, he sings weekly services and directs the choir, while maintaining an active teaching studio.

Landry’s passion for live theater is evident in his depiction of real-time audience feedback.

“Live theatre is very much a conversation between the stage and the audience,” he explains. “We really feel like we’re able to really engage an audience with what we’re saying, and we can adapt what we do based on what they’re sending us. It’s a unique kind of rush to be aware of so many people going on a journey with you!”

Adding another dimension to his artistic repertoire, Landry has recently branched out into audiobook narration, combining his love of theater and reading.

“I currently have half a dozen books out and I’m always working on new titles,” he says.

Landry’s artistic journey, deeply influenced by the Houston community, pays homage to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. As he prepares for his next role in “Ruddigore,” audiences can expect to see the talent and passion Landry brings to every performance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see Wes Landry in action at Cullen Performance Hall on July 20-21, and again on July 27-28. Tickets are available online at www.hgns.org/tickets, with prices ranging from $49 to $94, plus application fees. Make sure to buy early to get the best seats.