Tennessean arts writer Alan Bostick profiled internationally-acclaimed opera tenor Clifton Forbis, a 1985 graduate of Belmont University, who will sing the lead in Nashville Opera’s new production of Pagliacci, opening Friday at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.
You may have spotted his pickup out front, and you’ll probably find him talking about deer hunting. The man loves to hunt but lacks the time these days. For one thing, he’s renovating his house just outside of town. It’s hard, slow work, and the place, he says, is a wreck. That’s why we hooked up here in town to discuss, over fresh coffee, that other thing that keeps Forbis busy. Later this week, the world-class tenor will sing the lead in Nashville Opera’s new production of Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci (Clowns), which opens Friday at TPAC. …
Surprisingly, the upcoming Nashville performance marks his debut with the hometown company. The reason is simple, explained John Hoomes, the opera’s artistic director.
”We’ve talked before, but he’s been way too busy,” Hoomes said.
Now that Forbis is finally here, the director can hardly believe his ears.
”He has an incredible voice, an incredibly polished artistry both vocal and dramatic,” Hoomes said.
