We’re so excited to share another Faustcast feature! Today, let’s get to know Jason Buckwalter, our Wagner!
What led you to a career in singing?
My babysitter from when I was little was playing Kim MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie at the high school and it turned out that they needed a younger kid to play Randolph and she suggested me. It all started there. I love being on stage.
Tell us about the character you play in Faust.
Wagner is a soldier. He likes to have fun and drink and flirt for tomorrow he may die. And as a matter of fact, Mephistopheles tells him he’s going to die in battle so he doesn’t last too long in the opera.
Do you have any advice for aspiring singers?
Find a teacher you love working with. Learn languages as soon as you can. Learn to play the piano.
If you could play any role (regardless or voice part, gender, etc.), what role would it be?
I already get to play one of my favorites: Papageno. If I had to pick one I don’t get to play, it’s probably Falstaff. What a blast that would be!
What do you have coming up after Faust?
I’ll be singing the solos in Carmina Burana for the first time in May with the Harrisburg Choral Society.
Why do you love opera?
I love using my voice to express the feelings of a character and I love running around on stage and being silly or dramatic. There is nothing more fun.
Other than opera, what are you listening to now? (What’s on your iPod?)
I really like Sigur Rós and and Jimmy Eat World from the 90s.
What do you do for fun/what hobby or interest do you enjoy outside of performing?
I’m a comic book nerd. I love the X-men.
Want to keep up with Jason? Check out his website! (Want to see him in action? Get your tickets to Faust NOW!)
