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About J. Spyder Isaacson
Expertise
Especially the Seattle theatre scene. Seattle is the number two theatre city of the nation, having more theatres than any other city (including Chicago!) except New York. I know the reputations of most of the local theatres, have worked with quite a number of them, and am currently earning the majority of my livelihood through live theatre. Beyond that, I have been a working professional for the past 10 years (after a long career in an unrelated field), have done just about everything in the field, and have done every possible type of theatre. Currently, I am also pursuing a new (and unexpected!) career as an animated film producer. (PLEASE NOTE that I am NOT an expert in music!)

Experience
I have been an award-winning actor, singer, playwright, director and administrator (on various levels, all categories) for the past 30 years. A large part of my expertise has been with live theatre, although I do have a minor connection to filmed theater. I have done musicals, straight dramas, straight comedies, and experimental theatre.

Organizations
Theatre Puget Sound Magical Mystery Troupe Centerstage Theatre Conservatory Board of Trustees (former) Express-Theatre Northwest (former) Snoqualmie Falls Forest Theater

Publications
Unrelated trade publications

Education/Credentials
B.A. in Theatre Arts, Gonzaga University M.Ed. in Education and Technology, Western Governor's University (in progress)

Awards and Honors
Mutiple awards (ask for specifics), Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival Valley Community Players, Best Supporting Actor

Past/Present Clients
C's Animation Studio Productions, LLC

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Arts/Humanities > Performing Arts > Acting in Plays, Singing > Baritone or Tenor

Acting in Plays, Singing - Baritone or Tenor


Expert: J. Spyder Isaacson - 6/13/2009

Question
Hey, I'm in high school and have been doing plays since forever. Ever since 6th
grade, I've been a tenor, and just recently i was messing around and tried bass,
to my surprise I could hit all the notes. I was wondering, is there a preference
for Broadway type plays for tenor or for bass? I can really belt out bass, but I can
use vibrato and hit notes faster as Tenor

Answer
Good question!  And the answer is: it depends.

In the history of musical theatre, there have been periods where shows have been written for tenors and other times where shows are written for baritone or bass voices.  From what I have heard from current hit musicals, the current preference is for baritone . . .  but that could change at a moment's notice.

It sounds like you have a very good range, and might be classified by the slang term "baritenor" - someone with an exceptional range. Being one myself, I can tell you that it is a great advantage toward landing roles. (Two years ago I was cast in a straight tenor role, and this summer I'm doing a bass role.)

You didn't mention whether or not you have had any voice training.  If you haven't, I would strongly encourage you to pursue voice lessons; if you have, I would encourage you to continue.  A well-trained voice is *essential* in theatre, and gives you a far greater advantage than someone who can simply carry a tune.

Break a leg, and let me know how you do!

-- Spyder


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