Andrew Wilkowske, who sings the role of La Rocca in this summer’s King for a Day, is no stranger to Glimmerglass. He spent two summers (2005, 2006) as a Glimmerglass Young Artist. In recent years he performed in the premieres of The Grapes of Wrath and Silent Night and sang the title role in The Emperor of Atlantis at Boston Lyric Opera. This summer, he returns as a guest artist and will also present Guns & Rosenkavalier, a rock recital that melds art song with rock song, as part of the Meet Me at the Pavilion series.
Here is our Quick Q&A with Andrew:
What, for you, is the pivotal moment in La Rocca’s journey?
La Rocca is a total opportunist, and his pivotal moment doesn’t happen until the end of the opera. He realizes that he’s been duped by Belfiore. He says, “I guess we’ll make the best of it. There’s nothing else to do.” Not a bad motto!
What do you like most about the character of La Rocca?
He has no problem speaking with great eloquence about how terrific he is!
Let’s get to know you a little better:
Are there any artists you feel particularly inspired by?
There is a rock singer from Minneapolis named Craig Finn, who is so full of joy he makes every phrase he sings a celebration. Even though the genre is different, I find him to be tremendously inspiring.
What do you do for fun in your spare time?
Tell me more about this ‘spare’ time.
Who have you been told is your celebrity doppelganger?
Paul Rudd
Name something on your bucket list you are still working toward.
I have a 6-year-old daughter and am expecting a son this fall. My bucket list consists of not screwing them up too badly before they move out of the house!
Why are you most looking forward to the 2013 Festival at Glimmerglass?
I was a Young Artist in 2005 and 2006 and it is a total thrill to be returning as a guest artist. I am a huge fan of Eric Owens and am looking forward to his concert with the Young Artists in August. I also think David Pittsinger and Nathan Gunn are going to be spectacular in Camelot. Mostly I am looking forward to reuniting with old friends and making great music this summer!