Meet one of the performers in Opera Grand Rapids’ Mikado’

Editor’s Note: Opera Grand Rapids production “The Mikado” is almost sold out.

Opera Grand Rapids will present Gilbert and Sullivan comedic opera “The Mikado” Nov. 1 and 2 at St. Cecilia Music Center, 24 Ranson Ave. NE. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. both days.

Bass Andrew Potter is in the role of Pooh-Bah, who holds numerous exalted offices, including “First Lord of the Treasury, Lord Chief Justice, Commander-in-Chief, Lord High Admiral … Archbishop … Lord Mayor” and “Lord High Everything Else”.

Where are you originally from? Lynchburg, VA

Who has inspired you/been your greatest influence professionally? Why? Professionally, there are truly too many to mention… so many have been a huge and integral part of my journey. So, the greatest? Not to be cheesy, but I’d have to say my mother. Back when I was first starting and there was no shortage of people telling me to get a “real job.” She was the one that encouraged me to stay the course, and pursue my dream. She taught me to dream, love, be kind, work harder than anyone, and to never quit; and that’s why I’m here.

Who/what brought you into the world of Opera? When I was 9, my father had us all watch the entirety of the Wagner’s Ring Cycle, and I loved it. Many years later, after having gone on to be an instrumentalist, a wonderful voice teacher—Dr. Wayne Kompelien—talked me into “trying out singing.” After a semester of voice, I was officially hooked.

Where do you live now? Lynchburg, VA

What are your hobbies when not performing? I love spending time in the gym, and I also love rock climbing and mountaineering.

What is your favorite Role/Opera/Piece? It’s impossible to choose just one! Wotan in the Ring Cycle; Mefistofele in Boito’s Mefistofele; Blitch in Susannah; John Claggart in Billy Budd, to name a few. My favorite performed role to date has been Mephostpheles in Gounod’s Faust.

What are your favorite things about being a professional musician? Getting to be a part of bringing something timeless and magical to life, and giving that as a gift to others.

Least favorite? Missing things/people due to being on the road (Birthdays, Holidays, etc.).

Where is your favorite place to travel/perform? Why? This is REALLY tough. I’ve been able to visit so many wonderful places. I think, however, I’d have to say Alaska (shoutout to Anchorage Opera). I loved being there in the Spring and being around the mountains, but also a block or two away from the water.

What performances/plans do you have in the next year?: Outside of singing, I’m working on knocking off the highest peaks in each state, so I’d like to bag 3 new ones this year. Career-wise, it’s a busy season ahead, with several exciting role debuts!