Who is Russell Harcourt?
I’m a countertenor: That is, a male singer with the vocal range of a female mezzo-soprano and we sing roles and repertoire formerly sung by castrati of the 17th and 18th centuries. I’m an introverted extrovert, unassuming, self-deprecating, loyal and a frequent op-shopper, living and working in Sydney on Gadigal country.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I always wanted music to form an important part of my life so I feel very fortunate to have found a vocation that is rewarding professionally and personally. When I’m not performing I’m teaching the next generation of singers, watching them aspire to similar goals I had for myself at their age. So, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Who inspires you and why?
Other creative people. My mentors, colleagues, students and friends that work or train in the arts sector for their passion for creating, performing and storytelling.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Music education and philanthropy within the arts are important. Giving children access to music, be it singing, a musical instrument, attending concerts or operas and musicals, can really impact their life and enhance and improve their learning and development. Having an appreciation for the arts is incredibly important.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
London, UK. I studied and lived in London for more than a decade and it really feels like a home away from home. There’s always so much to do and see there, and I love to reconnect with friends, so it’s always the top of my list.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Sydney Opera House, of course! The jewel of the emerald city. Even if you’re not going to see something inside, there’s a fantastic walking trail from the CBD, along the Opera House and through the Royal Botanic Gardens to take it all in.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently immersed in the score of Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice and regularly getting lost down the rabbit hole of Google, Wikipedia and YouTube, researching background information on the legend of Orfeo and how the psyche affects our actions and the extremes we will go to for love. And occasionally, I find time for short stories by Oscar Wilde.
What are you currently listening to?
Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice is on a loop at the moment – being played, sung and swirling around in my mind – in preparation for rehearsals and performances in Perth with West Australian Opera in October. Gluck’s writing for the voice and dramatic intentions pour through the music. I also love true crime Podcasts such as The Teacher’s Pet and Fatal Voyage.
Happiness is?
A day off somewhere warm by the water when I don’t have to think about singing or singers!
Russell will be seen in West Australian Opera’s highly anticipated production of Orpheus & Eurydice, where he’ll star as Orpheus alongside Prudence Sanders’ Eurydice. Orpheus & Eurydice is playing at His Majesty’s Theatre from 24 October – 2 November 2024. For more information, visit: www.waopera.asn.au for details.
Image: Russell Harcourt – photo by Christopher Hayles