Wagnerian Tenor's Accidental Rise to Operatic Stardom

Austrian tenor Andreas Schager is currently making his Royal Opera debut as Siegfried in the third installment of the Ring Cycle. His path to this demanding role was unconventional, marked by an unexpected breakthrough in 2013. Schager's journey from a farm in rural Austria to the operatic stage is a testament to his versatile training.

Schager spent a decade performing in operettas, an experience he credits for honing his skills in acting, dancing, and singing simultaneously. This background proved invaluable when he was called upon at the last minute to sing the challenging role of Siegfried at the Berlin State Opera. The intense demands of the part, which he had no prior specific preparation for, were met with remarkable assurance.