Ten Questions with
Nathan Stark, bass
Sarastro in The Magic Flute
1. Where were you born / raised?
I was born on Travis Air Force Base Hospital in Fairfield, CA, but I was raised in Hughson, CA – a small farming community in the California central valley.
2. If you weren’t a singer, what profession would you be in?
I’d go into education. Being a teacher is a noble profession.
3. The first opera I was ever in was…
My first opera role was Mr. Cox in the one-act comedy Cox and Box by Arthur Sullivan. There’s a hilarious tenor aria in the show titled, “Hush-a-bye, bacon.”
4. My favorite opera is…
I don’t have a single favorite, but at the top of my list are Don Giovanni, Le Nozze di Figaro, Don Carlo, and L’Italiana in Algeri.
5. My favorite pre-show / post-show meal is…
Before a show I usually eat something pretty light and healthy – like a salad, fruits, steamed veggies, or non-cream-based soups. After a show, I’m looking for the nearest Taco Bell.
6. People would be surprised to know that…
I have webbed toes.
7. The musical instrument that I wish I could play is …
The cello. I love the timbre of that instrument.
8. I like to binge-watch…
House of Cards and Game of Thrones.
9. What four people (living or deceased) would you like to invite for a dinner party?
Jesus Christ, George Frideric Handel, Dolly Parton, and Ellen DeGeneres.
10. Everyone should see The Magic Flute because….
Aside from having a stellar cast and crew, it’s a great “first–time opera” for those who have never seen one before (so bring a friend)! It’s also great for those opera buffs who are seeing it again for the 80th time. Musically and dramatically, it’s a fun journey for everybody!
Bonus: One question you wish someone would ask you (and the answer).
Q: Aside from Madison Opera, what do you like about Madison?
A: The beer cheese soup and fried cheese curds.
Don’t miss the chance to see Nathan in The Magic Flute, Mozart’s sublime opera that is part fairy-tale, part adventure story, and all enchantment. Performances are April 21 and 23 in Overture Hall. Tickets start at $18; visit madisonopera.org for more information.
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