(Credit: Ludwig Olah/Semperoper Dresden)

This week the Berlin State Opera is set to open its production of Strauss’ epic opera “Die Frau Ohne Schatten.” The work is rarely performed because of the immense cast and orchestra it requires so it is always a special work to hear it when it is presented. With this revival, the Berlin State Opera has assembled an all-star cast that also includes rising star Ukrainian bass-baritone Oleksandr Pushniak.

The bass-baritone made his role debut as the Barak during the 2023-24 season at the Semperoper Dresden. For his role, he garnered rave reviews with critics stating, “Ukrainian bass-baritone Oleksandr Pushniak…proved to be an excellent and accomplished complement to his more experienced colleagues. The voice is large but focused, with beautiful legato where needed. His acting as a loving and bewildered husband was sympathetic and genuine.” Now he will take his acclaimed turn to Berlin where he will make his house debut.

Regarding the debut the bass-baritone took to social media and said, “This year, for the second time, I have the great fortune to be part of the mind-blowing cast among VERY strong and star colleagues and to perform the role of Barak in Richard Strauss’ masterpiece ‘Frau ohne Schatten.’ This time under the direction of wonderful Maestro Constantin Trinks. Please keep your fingers crossed, as Barak is probably one of the most challenging roles I have ever sung in my career.”

An Alumnus of the opera studio of the Washington National Opera, Pushniak has performed at the Deutsche Oper Berlin, Staatstheater Braunschweig, Bayreuth Festival, and  Weimar National Theater. This season he will be seen at the Prague National Theatre, Sempoper Dresden, and Weimar National Theater.

Recordings

Pushniak has several recordings including “Das Rheingold” with the Hong Kong Philharmonic, “Sardanapalo,” and “Aladin” with the Staatsorchester Braunschweig on JPC.