Meet Our Artists: Daniel Bates

Although he's a familiar face at this point (click here to read his previous interview during his run as Ferrando), our Meet Our Artists series continues with Young Artist Daniel Bates, who will be playing the role of Nadir in our upcoming production of Georges Bizet's The Pearl Fishers on March 1 and 6.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER YOUR TICKETS

---

Hello again, Daniel. There's no need for introductions. We took care of that when you performed in Così last month! Can you tell us about what your experience playing Ferrando was like? 

Performing Ferrando was an absolute blast! Bernard Uzan was such a pleasure to work with; he is truly brilliant. He was able to draw a lot of comedic moments out of all of us but also forced us to keep truth in our interpretation since they are all real people, at the end of the day.

It was so much fun to perform with my fellow Young Artists as well. We all bonded so much during the process and, already being good friends, it was that much more fun to be on stage together. There was a real mutual trust between all of us which allowed us to play freely. I think the amount of fun we were having translated really well into the performance.

What was the most artistically-fulfilling moment of the entire process?

It is hard to find only one moment. I feel like the whole process was so amazing and really stretched me as a singer and artist. But, at the end of the day, there is nothing like walking into the Arsht Center, hearing the orchestra begin playing, seeing the lights all come on... that is an amazing feeling.

What was the funniest thing that has happened during a Così rehearsal / performance?

I think some of the funniest moments during both rehearsals and performances are those in which Issac and I are playing the “Turks.” Since the rehearsal process allowed us to play, we sometimes went way overboard in our seduction attempts. Some days those poor girls didn’t know what to expect, and we all had trouble not laughing at ourselves. That is quite fun.

Fantastic! Now let's switch gears into the current production. How would you explain the plot of The Pearl Fishers to a newcomer to the opera?

Two best friends fall in love with the same girl, but seeing that it will tear their friendship apart, they swear that neither of them will pursue her. As in all great stories, one of the friends cannot bring himself to keep to the pact, and he goes to many extremes to get the girl.

I don’t want to give away what happens in the end, but I think the focus is a dramatic love triangle that tests a friendship.

What is your favorite part about this role so far? 

Nadir has such beautiful music. His aria in Act I, “Je cross entendre encore,” is just stunning. It is one of my favorite pieces of music; I could listen to it all day.

Aside from that, I identify strongly with Nadir. We are both fairly impulsive, and his emotions run very deeply. He is unafraid to show that to the world, which I can relate to well. Nadir will stop at nothing to get the girl he loves, and who doesn't love that?

Now that you've rehearsed the entire piece, what is your favorite moment in the entire opera?

Sarasota Opera production of The Pearl Fishers
Photo Credit: Rod Millington

Well, I love the aria that I spoke about earlier. However, I also really love the off-stage chanson Nadir sings in Act I. It is a simplistic melody but it is everything one could want in a love song. 

Have you come across any obstacles during your preparation for the role?

The role itself is very challenging. The aria sits in a very difficult part of the voice for  the tenor, and to sing it takes all of ones focus and control. Not to mention, the deep emotion behind the music and text which makes it a real challenge to balance the two sides of the work.

Why should people come to see this production of The Pearl Fishers? 

I would say come because the music is stunning, and you will hear some amazing singers in this production. There are so many themes discussed in this piece that are prevalent in today’s society; love, trust, betrayal, religion, etc. It is an opera that will make you think, and will cause you to really feel for the characters throughout the evening.

And finally, just for fun: If you had $10 million and you HAD to spend it in 30 days, what would you spend your money on?

After repaying my loans (ha!), I would buy a modest, little apartment in NYC. Then, I would buy a house in one of my favorite places; Jenner, California. It is a town of about 90 people right in Sonoma with no cell phone reception. I have been there a few times with friends and my girlfriend and it is beautiful and peaceful. What more could I want?

---

Daniel will be performing the role of Nadir in Florida Grand Opera's lush and exotic production of Bizet's The Pearl Fishers on March 1 and 6.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER YOUR TICKETS