His appearances with Opera North this past summer proved his tremendous acting flair when he was cast both as Scarpia and the Duke of Plaza Toro in Gilbert & Sullivan's THE GONDOLIERS. Critic Paul Joseph Walkowski of Opera Online wrote, “Lawrence Harris in the role last evening of The Duke of Plaza-Toro was easily one of the high points of this opera. His delivery was easy, his acting was superb and his stage presence was both natural and commanding.” This same critic nominated Mr. Harris for his Connecticut Grand Opera performance of Rigoletto for the 2005 Best Leading Male Performance saying his portrayal was “truly moving and insightful.” Mr. Harris' Scarpia with Opera North was a compelling and emotionally charged performance moving the audience to tears followed by a triumphant standing ovation. Mr. Harris' talents have also taken him to the professional gridiron, playing for such teams as the Houston Oilers of the NFL, the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL, and the New Orleans Breakers of the USFL. He has an active schedule that includes musical involvement with inner-city youth. His program, "From Football to Opera", generated national attention and led to his recognition as the only Native American former professional football player to grace America 's concert stages. Upcoming performances include a US Tour of his outreach program From Football to Opera. Recording projects are scheduled for 2006-2007. Upcoming opera performances include Scarpia in Opera East Texas' production of TOSCA under the baton of New York City Opera conductor Gerald Steichen, Tonio in I PAGLIACCI with Center City Opera, Germont in LA TRAVIATA with the San Antonio Lyric Opera, and the High Priest in SAMSON AND DELILAH with the Hawaii Opera Theatre. |
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