Can you tell us about your role at OHP this year?

Of course! I’m playing the role of Figaro in Rossini’s super fun opera, The Barber of Seville. Figaro, although a barber by trade, is actually a bit of a jack of all trades in the city, and lots of people go to him when they have a problem or need some help. As the opera unfolds we can see why Figaro carries this reputation, that’s for sure!

The Barber of Seville is a prequel to Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. Does performing a role that comes from another opera influence the way you work?

I think what it can do is provide some more context for your role. In this case, the relationship between Figaro and the Count is quite different between the two operas. Knowing this can provide a bit of extra depth for me when it comes to acting and reacting on stage.

What do you hope to learn or gain from the OHP Young Artists scheme?

Firstly I am just so delighted to be here, and working with such talented and special performers. I can’t wait to watch the main cast rehearse and perform, and try to soak up as much knowledge from them as possible. Apart from that I just want to enjoy my time with OHP as much as possible and make sure to give my all for what will be an incredible show and experience!

Do you have a dream role that you are yet to perform?

I think at this stage in my career I could pretty much say everything there is! Ironically, the role of the Count in the Mozart The Marriage of Figaro is a role I would love to do. On top of this, there would be Onegin, Billy Budd, Malatesta in Don Pasquale… There’s truly too many to pick from!

The Barber of Seville is (unsurprisingly) about a barber. Do you have any stories of terrible haircuts?

Well, that depends on who you ask when it comes to my haircuts! I’ve certainly had some questionable styles (possibly even what I currently have!) that have, let’s say… Split opinions. But whatever cut I walk out of that barbers in, I try my best to style it out!

What is one piece of advice, musical or otherwise, that you’ve been given that has stayed with you?

I would definitely say that it’s; no matter how things are going in your musical life, always remind yourself of why you chose this path of following your dreams, and ALWAYS try to believe in yourself, even in low moments. If you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect others to? My undergrad singing teacher from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Kathleen Ferguson, gave me this advice years ago and it’s always stuck with me.

 

Find out more about The Barber of Seville.