Patrick Bade
Feodor Chaliapin: The 20th Century’s Greatest Singing Actor
Summary
The lecture explores Feodor Chaliapin (1873–1938), the interesting connection to iconic culinary creations as well as his extraordinary ability to transform himself on stage. Despite critiques of his vocal technique, Chaliapin’s genius lay in his unparalleled stage presence and transformative makeup artistry. The discussion further emphasizes Chaliapin’s profound impact on audiences and colleagues, extending beyond his operatic performances. Through anecdotes and recordings, Chaliapin’s multifaceted talent and enduring influence emerge as a testament to his status as one of the greatest bass singers of the 20th century.
Patrick Bade
Patrick Bade is a historian, writer, and broadcaster. He studied at UCL and the Courtauld Institute of Art. He was a senior lecturer at Christie’s Education for many years and has worked for the Art Fund, Royal Opera House, National Gallery, and V&A. He has published on 19th- and early 20th-century paintings and historical vocal recordings. His latest book is Music Wars: 1937–1945.
He was so popular that in the early years, he was kind of untouchable. But I think he came to realise that this was not for him. Eventually he left spending the rest of his life in the West and never returned to Russia.
I don’t think he ever did sing Wagner. He would’ve been a wonderful Pogner in Meistersinger. He would’ve been a wonderful, fantastically sinister Argin.