Known for his riveting dramatic portrayals and the power and beauty of his voice, American baritone Morgan Smith has been entrusted to create 16 roles in world premieres, including Starbuck in Jake Heggie’s widely celebrated Moby-Dick. While his versatility and affinity for contemporary works has lead to engagements such as the role of Richard in Kevin Puts’ The Hours (in recent workshops with Cincinnati Opera and The Metropolitan Opera, as well as a cover assignment with the Philadelphia Orchestra), Mr. Smith has also earned universal praise for performances in traditional repertoire such as Escamillo (Carmen), the title role of Don Giovanni, Sharpless
(Madama Butterfly), Count Alamaviva (Le nozze di Figaro), Four Villains (Les contes d’Hoffmann), and the title role of Eugene Onegin.
The 2024-2025 season includes role debuts such as Emile de Becque in South Pacific with Dayton Opera, Scarpia in Tosca with South Bend Lyric Opera, and Melchoir in Amahl and the Night Visitors with Kentucky Opera.