Ten Questions With…
Clay Hilley, tenor
Florestan in Fidelio
1. Where were you born / raised?
Born in Athens, Georgia, and raised in a small town near there – Statham, Georgia.
2. If you weren’t a singer, what profession would you be in?
Law.
3. My favorite opera is…
Falstaff.
4. My favorite pre/post-show meal is…
Steak and potatoes – but that’s not unique to a show. 😉
5. People would be surprised to know that…
I am the oldest sibling of four. Because of my maturity level, most people assume I’m the baby.
6. What is your favorite song to belt out at the bar / in the car /for karaoke?
I loathe karaoke. The only thing I belt are corny jokes.
7. What is your pop culture guilty pleasure?
American Horror Story. All horror stories. 80s and 90s slasher films.
8. A few of my favorite films are…
Return of the King. Many horror movies.
9. If we were to turn on your ipod right now, what five artists/songs would we see on your recently-played list?
Fidelio.
10. What is the worst costume you’ve ever worn?
There are many, but one comes to mind. While playing King Kaspar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, I was dressed in a VERY heavy (and VERY HOT) costume. It was so hot that I made a choice to forgo any sort of undergarment (as no one in the audience would ever be able to notice). During the performance, I noticed an air-conditioning vent in the stage floor (we were performing in a church chancel), and “altered my blocking” such that I ended up hovering over said vent, enjoying the pleasantly-cooling streams of air while actively engaged in performing.
11. Bonus: One question you wish someone would ask you (and the answer):
Q: Would you like to have my UGA Bulldogs season tickets?
A: YES.
Don’t miss the chance to see Clay in Fidelio, Beethoven’s only opera! Performances are November 21 and 23 at Overture Hall. Tickets start at $18; visit madisonopera.org for more information.
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