Tommy Tune drops out of cast for HGO's "Showboat"

Tommy Tune: Getty Images
Tommy Tune has left the cast of Houston Grand Opera’s “Show Boat.” An HGO spokesman said Tune bowed out because the singer is on “vocal rest.”

Tune, a nine-time Tony winner who grew up in Houston, will be replaced by Lara Teeter, whose major credit is the lead male role in the 1983 Broadway revival of “On Your Toes."

"Show Boat" opens Jan. 18 at Wortham Center. "Show Boat" tickets ($16-$350) are at 713-228-6737 and houstongrandopera.org [1].

Born in Wichita Falls, Tune grew up in Houston, attended Lamar High School and the University of Houston, and gained early experience performing at Theater Inc. and other local companies. He made his Broadway debut dancing in "Baker Street" and, after a few more chorus jobs, made his breakthrough with a featured role in 1973's "Seesaw," winning his first Tony. He also performed in the films "Hello, Dolly!" and "The Boy Friend."

His success choreographing and co-directing "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas" pointed Tune in a new direction. He reached his artistic zenith directing and choreographing a string of stylish, prize-winning productions including "Nine," "My One and Only," "Grand Hotel" and "The Will Rogers Follies."

More recently, Tune toured as star of "Busker Alley" and "Dr. Dolittle," and in his concert show, "Tommy Tune: White Tie and Tails." He also made his Las Vegas debut starring in "SFX" and directed the world premiere of "Turn of the Century" at Chicago's Goodman Theatre in 2008.

In addition to his nine Tony Awards in four categories, Tune has won eight Drama Desk Awards, three Astaire Awards, the Society of Directors and Choreographers' George Abbott Award for Lifetime Achievement and the National Medal of Arts. He is the namesake of Houston's Tommy Tune Awards, which recognize local high school achievement in musical theater.