HONORARY FELLOW A CHAT WITH RENOWNED SOPRANO REBECCA EVANS Rebecca Evans, a celebrated soprano, discusses her inspiring career path, unwavering love for opera, and her Welsh heritage. Early Life and Singing Spark Q: Where did your operatic journey begin? My singing career started at Swansea University at the young age of 12. There used to be a building behind the Oceanography department where I’d have private lessons with a fantastic baritone every Thursday evening. Even at four, I was surrounded by classical music thanks to my mother, a former opera singer, and my father’s love for orchestral pieces. Opera truly captivated me. Universality of Music Q: Does music transcend cultural barriers? Does opera convey universal emotions? Undoubtedly! Opera, like music in general, is incredibly accessible. We all interpret it differently, but the core messages and emotions resonate with audiences from all backgrounds.
Celebrating Welsh Culture Q: Do you feel a responsibility to promote Welsh culture? How do you do it? Absolutely! I’m heavily involved in the Welsh Singer’s competition, directing it, and mentoring the winner to represent Wales in Cardiff Singer of the World. I’m also the Director of the Associate Artists program at Welsh National Opera, where I mentor young singers. Passing on the baton to the next generation feels like my duty. Tradition and Modernity in Opera Q: How do you balance respecting tradition with making opera relevant for contemporary audiences? I strive to respect the art, be honest to the text, and follow the director’s vision. Directors reinterpret the story, keeping it relevant. It’s cyclical; we’ve seen traditional productions and minimalist ones. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance – appealing to new audiences whilst caring for the ones who have also supported opera for 20,30 or 40 years. Current performances are less minimalist so that audiences can revel in the beauty of the production in a world that currently has a lot of ugliness in it. Comedy vs. Tragedy and Advice for Aspiring Artists Q: Do you have a favourite genre to perform? While I love tragedies, comedy is my favourite. Acting and bringing a character to life is a privilege and great fun. For aspiring artists, I say be true to yourself and celebrate your heritage through your art. Sing or act from the depths of your soul.
Read the full interview on our website at swan.ac/rebeccaevans
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