Canio in PAGLIACCI

Lyric Opera of Chicago

“As Canio, Russell Thomas sang with consistently beautiful tone and surprising dramatic intensity. The top of his voice rang forth incisively (the high option on the final “A ventitré ore” in the opening interlude held no terrors for him) and his “Vesti la giubba” was heartbreaking. There was an elemental violence to his sound, and his hulking physical presence was a real asset.”
–Mark Thomas Ketterson, Opera News

“Russell Thomas is a heroic tenor with the voice and the look for Canio… His high notes shine in bronzed security.”
–Maria Nockin, Broadway World

“Thomas as Canio is splendid. He has beautiful singing diction, caressing his Italian while holding the audience in his hands. Thomas sings with passion and you are frightened by his turmoil.”
–M.L. Rantala, Hyde Park Herald

“Tenor Russell Thomas was a formidable Canio, combining a glowering physicality with a ringing, open sound.”
–Mark Tiarks, Santa Fe New Mexican

“Russell Thomas’s Cavaradossi roared right out of the starting gate, setting up a uniform display of brilliant vocalism that flowed unchecked for the next 90 minutes.”
–Ken Smith, Opera Magazine