Who is Jason Barry-Smith?
I’m a baritone who’s sung opera, operetta, and music theatre around Australia and New Zealand for a really long time .and I still love it! I also gain huge fulfilment from passing on skills to others as a teacher, vocal coach, musical director, and conductor, as well as building opportunities for community singing all around Queensland.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I don’t think I’d do anything differently. I really can’t think of anything I would prefer to do than share stories and music that I’m passionate about with others, and work with all of the extraordinary people I’ve shared rehearsal rooms and stages with over many years. It’s been a gift of a life.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by so many people, especially those who are brilliant, brave, passionate, and kind. My wife, my sister, and my dear departed mum and dad are all part of that group. All wonderful people who continue to inspire me to be the best I can be.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I hope that my passion for bringing people together to sing is making a real difference. There is nothing like the sense of joy that community singing brings. It enhances our sense of well-being, connection, and empathy – things that many seem to long for at the moment.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Our favourite holiday is always somewhere where our family is all together. We’re all so busy during the year, so having time together is a real, and increasingly rare, treat. And, after all, I live in Queensland – beautiful one day, perfect the next!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
South Bank: there are so many places to visit – theatres, restaurants, museums, art galleries, set amongst beautiful parklands with beaches. River-side dining and artistic life is thriving here in Brisbane, and that’s one of the main hubs.
What are you currently reading?
Clive James’ 2012 collections of essays, Cultural Amnesia – which is extraordinarily witty, insightful, and inspiring.
What are you currently listening to?
A very eclectic selection of music from J S Bach, Benjamin Britten, and Dmitri Shostakovich to Stephen Sondheim, Laurence, and Gilbert & Sullivan.
Happiness is?
Watching a great film at home with my darling wife, Leisa, with one of our cats by our side. Bliss!
What does the future hold for you?
A very busy schedule, with many brilliant projects before the end of the year, but I’m looking forward to one in particular because it’s one of my life-long loves: Gilbert & Sullivan – A Soirée of Song and Satire.
I can’t wait to be reunited with Australia’s king of G&S, Stuart Maunder, the brilliant young conductor, James Dobinson, a wonderful cast of friends and colleagues, and the extraordinary words and music of two of my musical heroes. I told you I love the gift of life!
Jason stars in Prospero Arts’ production of Gilbert & Sullivan – A Soirée of Song and Satire – which will be presented in the Concert Hall – QPAC, Brisbane, from 6 – 9 September 2026. For more information, visit: www.prosperoarts.com.au for details.
Image: Jason Barry-Smith (supplied)