Ten Questions With…
Siân Davies, soprano
Antonia / Giulietta / Stella
The Tales of Hoffmann
1. Where were you born / raised?
Born in Dewsbury (Yorkshire), England and raised in Rochester, Michigan.
2. If you weren’t a singer, what profession would you be in?
This is really hard to say… I enjoy bringing pieces together to make them into a finished product, so maybe something like event planning? At the same time, I absolutely love baking, so it would be fun to have a shop!
3. The first opera I was ever in was…
Bluebeard’s Castle by Bela Bartok.
4. My favorite opera is…
Ever-changing. Typically whatever I’m working on is a favorite, due to the nature of being fully immersed in the project. I’ve been fortunate to perform Le Nozze di Figaro the most in my career, so it is definitely in my top three!
5. My favorite pre-show meal is…
It really depends on the physicality of the show, but I usually have something light but with staying power 3-4 hours beforehand. Brown rice with chicken and vegetables is a great option! I’ll also have apple juice and bananas backstage with me to snack between scenes.
6. People would be surprised to know that…
I started college with the intention of becoming a biochemist.
7. A few of my favorite books are…
Dracula, Frankenstein, Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series.
8. If we were to turn on your ipod right now, what five artists / songs would we see on you recently-played list?
It would depend on if I’ve been alone or with my infant son! Led Zeppelin, Shostakovich 2nd piano concerto, Stevie Wonder, Disney movie tunes, and Pentatonix.
9. What is the worst costume you’ve ever worn?
I was once reviewed as looking like an escaped mental patient… I had a shiny white tunic and was barefoot. Looking back, the reviewer wasn’t really wrong.
10. Everyone should see The Tales of Hoffmann because….
It has something for everyone! It’s funny and dramatic with beautiful and luscious music.
Bonus: One question you wish someone would ask you (and the answer):
Q: If you could be a different voice type for a day, what would be your dream role?
A: I would love to sing Eugene Onegin or Billy Budd!
Don’t miss the chance to see Siân in The Tales of Hoffmann, an extraordinary work that is equal parts fantasy, realism, and genuine passion. Performances are April 15 and 17 in Overture Hall. Tickets start at $18; visit madisonopera.org for more information.
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