For many young opera singers, the dream of performing at a major theater in a lead role is one that they work many years to achieve. For some it comes through moving through young artists programs, and ensemble programs while for others it works through competitions. And for some, the breakthrough comes with an unexpected call. Think Angela Meade, who {…}
(Credit: Kia Caldwell Photography) Few sopranos have managed to build as diverse a career as Karen Slack has over the past few years. Throughout the pandemic, Slack made numerous premiere digital performances with such companies as the Houston Grand Opera, Madison Opera, and Minnesota Opera. She launched her digital talk show “#kikikonversations.” She’s been a massive advocate for new works, {…}
Entrepreneur extraordinaire Dr. Shanté Williams, is a notable businesswoman, intellectual property strategist, specialist in neuro-oncology and pharmacology, and the first woman and person of color to lead Opera Carolina in the role of General Director. Dr. Williams talked with OperaWire about her unique journey to the opera world, her leadership style, and plans for the company. OperaWire: You hold degrees {…}
(Credit: Lucas Sanchez) Argentinian/Italian tenor Santiago Ballerini is one of the leading tenors in the Bel Canto repertoire. He has performed at many of the major opera houses throughout North and South America from Opera Nacional de Chile, Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, Canadian Opera Company, Bellas Artes in Mexico City, and Dallas Opera. He has also performed in Europe {…}
(Credit: Fay Fox) Content Warning: Please note the following includes some explicit language. American tenor Russell Thomas is now one of the most sought-after tenors of his generation having established his reputation in key lyric roles such as Don Carlo, Manrico in “Il trovatore,” Don Alvaro in “La forza del destino,” and Pollione “Norma.” As an alumnus of the Metropolitan {…}
On July 13, the Santa Fe Opera is set to present the world premiere of “The Righteous” by Gregory Spears and Tracy K. Smith. The opera explores the tension between genuine faith and the fraught world of 1980s politics. Spears’ eighth opera represents the 19th world premiere for the company. Over the years, Spears’ acclaim as a contemporary composers has {…}
After years at the University of Cape Town followed by a stint as a Young Artist with the Cape Town Opera and a 2019 audience award at the International Hans Gabor Belvedere Singing Competition, soprano Masabane Cecilia Rangwanasha shone in the spotlight of the 2021 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition, becoming the first African to win the coveted {…}
Most opera enthusiasts across the world know about the Glyndebourne Festival. They may also know about other high-profile festivals set in country houses across England, such as The Grange Opera and the Longborough festivals. Few, however, will have heard of the Waterperry Festival, situated close to the city of Oxford. Established in 2017, the festival opened its doors the following {…}
(Credit: Victor Santiago) Erika Grimaldi is quickly rising to the top as one of the most acclaimed Verdi and Puccini sopranos in the world. Her voice has been praised for its rich and round voice and has been heard at such theaters as the Teatro alla Scala, Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Bayerische Staatsoper in Munich, Deutsche Oper in Berlin, Teatro {…}