Singer Spotlight: Russell Cripps

HMS Pinafore Singer Spotlight Russell Cripps

Name: Russell Cripps

Voice Type: Baritone

Role: Sir Joseph Porter, KCB

Hometown: Maple Ridge, BC

Is this your first time performing with DragonDiva?

Nope! Second. I was one of the Lord Chancellors in Iolanthe two years ago. My upper-class gentility shines through again!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

Sir Joe likes to take centre stage, and show off!

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

He’s the most extremely self-absorbed person, so I just stop thinking about anyone else besides ME.

Favourite part of this opera?

Buttercup’s secret that she alludes to in the second or third song, and doesn’t reveal until the second-to-last! Gilbert’s writing makes me smile every time.

What are your rituals before a performance?

I’m still developing rituals, but last week I had a bar of chocolate before a show, and had a great time. Maybe that will become my thing?

What is your favourite opera?

That’s tough… I still remember an incredible production I saw of Midsummer Night’s Dream in Hamburg, so I’ll choose that one.

Ever been asked to do something strange on stage?

Three unusual moments off the top of my head: stripping in a number from “The Full Monty”; riding a child’s tricycle; and lip-synching and dancing to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” in the middle of a G&S overture.

What’s the most difficult thing you’ve done on stage?

In the play version of Orwell’s 1984 I was being dragged across the stage to room 101 for interrogation. After rehearsing that scene a few times one day, I remember feeling absolutely wipes out from all that emotional yelling (not to mention the bruises)!

Favourite role you’ve ever played?

Shoot! Even harder than the favourite opera question. I pretended to be a Backsteet Boy in Chor Leoni’s concert last week and had a swell time… and really enjoyed being the loner telegraph operator in Applause Musical’s production of Titanic.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing?

A friend just introduced me to dodgeball, and I’m having a blast!

A lot of singers have day jobs… do you?

You bet! I’m a high school music teacher in Vancouver.

Coffee or tea?

I’d prefer a hot chocolate if you have it (are you noticing a the trend?) but tea’s just fine.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

Well, if I told you, I’d have to kill you…

You’re trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope to have with you?

A piano, a pile of sheet music, and an appreciative (captive) audience.

Tell us a joke.

Why was the Cyclops a bad teacher? He only had one pupil!

Any upcoming performances to share?

I’m looking forward to singing with musica intima for their next season.