Radamès in AIDA

LA Opera

“The new production of Aïda brought the LA Opera’s 2021-22 mainstage season to a triumphant climax. That there was something special about this performance was apparent … in the ringing, steady, tenor of Russell Thomas, a Radames in his prime, singing an expressive “Celeste Aïda.” The final duet in the crypt scene with Radames and Aïda was beautifully shaped, as haunting as I’ve ever heard it, playing on endlessly in my inner ear for many hours afterwards. This might be as good as Aïda gets.”
–Richard S. Ginell, Musical America

“Russell Thomas, Artist in Residence at LAO, brought his honeyed tenor to the role of Radames. With effortless singing that was rich in color, Thomas has the ability to tap deep reserves of humanity in both his voice and presence. This was distinctly in evidence in his duets with Latonia Moore…”
–Jane Rosenberg, Seen and Heard International

“The big voice of Russell Thomas, an incisive Radames, soared over magnificent chorus and orchestra. It all became amazingly believable. The real theater came from Thomas, who has the making of an impressive Radames in whom humanity rises above ambition…”
–Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times

“The phenomenal vocal talent ruled the show. Tenor Russell Thomas (Radames)…earned enthusiastic appreciation from the audience.”
–Julie Riggott, CultureSpot LA

“If it felt fresher this time in LA, it was due to…the force of two powerful lead performers, Latonia Moore and Russell Thomas. His tenor had a true, clarion cast to it in ‘Celeste Aida’ and Thomas consistently delivered vivid, liquid sounds.”
–James C. Taylor, Opera Magazine

“We were lucky in the casting of Russell Thomas as our Radames. It’s a big sing for any tenor and there’s the unavoidable hurdle of a monstrously difficult aria right at the top of the evening. His vocalism was strong and rich with emotion all evening. Fervent and unstintingly heroic…”
–Patrick Mack, Parterre Box