Who is Samuel Dale Johnson?
Samuel Dale Johnson is a fallible human being who is constantly living within a duality of personas balancing his focused artistic self and his private self.
He is an Australian Baritone who has been overseas for more than a decade singing with the world’s most renowned Opera Houses/companies, conductors and singers.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I know I would benefit greatly from compartmentalising my life. The most challenging thing I find about my work life balance is not bringing the nature of the rehearsal room back home with me.
The rehearsal room is a beautiful yet incredibly emotional space. We as opera singers are our instruments, so it is naturally a part of our own identity, but we must all learn to leave that emotional nature at the door.
Who inspires you and why?
This is perhaps going to sound a little strange, but anyone who makes the effort to better themselves. We all face difficult personal challenges once in a while and it’s important to develop coping mechanisms so we don’t let ourselves and those around us down.
I’m fortunate enough to call many big names in our industry ‘friends’ and I must say they all have this down. I believe it’s impossible to work at this level without having your house in order first.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
During my last appearance in Russia (before the war started), I gave a speech about world unity post Covid and how wonderful it was to have Italians, Americans, Germans and this Aussie all working together to create something truly beautiful and unique, but goodness me how the world has changed since then.
I would love to start by proposing more support for performing artists here in Australia. The industry is at such an incredible standard. Some of the best orchestras and singers are currently here in Australia and since returning to Oz, I can see all these Aussie audiences leaving the halls completely enthralled in what and where they were just transported to. We have the opportunity to build on something truly wonderful here in Australia.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
This is an easy one. Japan. Japan Japan Japan!! I’ve never had so much fun and felt so at ease with the people and culture. Every time I leave Japan, I say to myself, “Man, you’ve really got to get your act together and show more love and support to your fellow man”.
If one ever needs help with something, my experience is the people of Japan will do all they possibly can to help you… Or even just to show you a good time! And the food… Oh my goodness!!!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to and why?
Come to town is a little difficult to answer, because I feel like I have many ‘towns’. For the last 10 years I feel I’ve been in a new city every few months. But I do have a long list of favourites on my Google maps haha.
What I can suggest always… Almost anywhere in the world… Check out the local Opera House haha and go and see a show!
What are you currently reading?
I’ve just finished biographies of the first 10 American Presidents. Now I’m rereading Families and How to Survive Them. A dialogue between John Cleese and his psychiatrist. I’m also listening to an Audible which discusses the masculine nature in relationships. The title being The Masculine in Relationship. Someone very important to me suggested it might be of benefit.
What are you currently listening to?
Portishead – Roseland NYC Live.
Happiness is?
Finding your people and being free to be silly with them. Also, absolutely nailing a high note that you want to just hold onto forever!
What does the future hold for you?
In the next year, I’ll be in Germany, Switzerland, Adelaide, Italy, Japan and the UK. The much more succinct and hopeful answer would be ‘Happiness and Health’.
Samuel stars as Figaro in Opera Australia’s production of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville – which plays the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House from 18 January – 28 February 2025. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Samuel Dale Johnson – photo by Simon Pauly