Meet our Artists: Grisha Martirosyan is Figaro
Opera's most famous barber has arrived.
Armenian baritone Grisha Martirosyan makes his Calgary Opera debut as Figaro in The Barber of Seville (APR 18–24) and we couldn't wait to hear from him. We talked with Martirosyan about what he has in common with Figaro, the fun of singing one of opera's most famous tunes, and his goal of creating an everyday escape for his audiences.
What three words would you use to describe The Barber of Seville?
Grisha Martirosyan: “Wit, dynamic, chaos.”
What do you have in common with your character?
GM: “Like Figaro, I’m a bit of a problem-solver; I love being the person people turn to when they need something done — though I usually don’t charge a ‘consultation fee’ like he does! We also share a bit of vanity: I am very meticulous about my own hair and spend time every single day making sure it looks sharp and beautiful. If you see me in Calgary with perfectly styled hair, you’ll know I’m just staying in character!”
What's your favourite moment to sing in this show?
GM: “I can’t pick only one because I’m in love with the whole score! Naturally, singing the “Largo al factotum” is a thrill—it’s the perfect way to start the role with a bang. But I also find joy in the scenes with Bartolo. I love exploring their relationship; even though Bartolo is Figaro’s nemesis, he is also his favourite person to tease. It’s in those moments that Figaro’s brilliant, cunning nature really shines through.”
What do you hope audiences will hear or discover in The Barber of Seville?
GM: “I hope the audience discovers a perfect escape from their busy schedules. I love the idea that the theater is a place where the outside world just fades away. Seeing the audience leave the theater with smiles and such happy energy is honestly the highlight of my night! I hope that our music gives people a chance to recharge and simply enjoy themselves. My goal is for every person to head home feeling a little bit happier than when they arrived.”
Grisha Martirosyan stars in the title role of The Barber of Seville, onstage at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium APR 18–24. Belly laughs, Olympic-level singing, and iconic opera: get your tickets today.