Who is Alexander Lewis?
I am an opera singer and musical theatre performer who comes from a family of professional singers. I am a father and a husband. I am the Program Director of Opera Scholars Australia (OSA) where I get to teach and mentor the next generation of opera singers.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
There’s nothing much else I am skilled enough to do and I especially love my work as a coach and mentor at Opera Scholars. In another life I’d maybe be an F1 driver. What I should do differently is carve out more space for myself to meditate, exercise and play.
Who inspires you and why?
My wife, Chrissy O’Neill, for her empathy, her kindness, and gentle determination. My mother, Patricia, for her courage and knowledge. My Gen Z students for their insight and view on life.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think making music is a gift for everyone. It is a wonderfully uplifting experience for the performer, and it can be a powerfully moving learning experience for the audience. We teach, we distract, we soothe, and we invigorate audiences through music and theatre. Inspiring more young people into music and encouraging more people to support the arts by demonstrating the significant and vital impact it has on our world are probably going to be strong focuses for me going forward.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Japan! The food is outstanding and culturally it’s fascinating. It’s arguably the most thoughtful place on earth. The respect with which Japanese people move through life is something that I think we can all learn from. It doesn’t hurt that my son is a huge Pokémon fan either!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
We normally head to South Melbourne Markets. So many great food options to choose from and it is one of the places that makes Melbourne special.
What are you currently reading?
Emails and the script of Follies. I miss having the time to read.
What are you currently listening to?
Oh golly, I’ve been cleansing my brain of playlists that I put together to help me program concerts and events for OSA, so I’ve been listening to John Batiste’s Beethoven Blues. That and a Jazzy Christmas playlist.
Happiness is?
A lazy Sunday laughing with my family.
What does the future hold for you?
Family time please!
Alexander stars as Buddy Plummer in Victorian Opera’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s FOLLIES – which will be presented at St Kilda’s Palais Theatre from 1 – 6 February 2025. For more information, visit: www.victorianopera.com.au for details.
Image: Alexander Lewis (supplied)