Burned Chicago Opera Actor Is Home From The Hospital

By Samantha Abernethy in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 8, 2013 10:20PM

Actor Wesley Daniel was released from the hospital on Thursday, days after his face and head caught fire during a dress rehearsal at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Daniel, 24, was portraying a fire-breathing, stilt-walking carnival member on Monday when the flames blew back into his face and engulfed his head. He staggered off stage and to the floor. The performance halted 15 seconds later while paramedics tended to Daniel.

Daniel was hospitalized in critical condition and suffered second-degree burns to his face. Daniel's father said his son is speaking in a "whispery croak," communicating largely with hand gestures.

The Occupational Safety and Health administration is opening an investigation into the incident to determine whether the Lyric Opera violated any safety precautions.