November 2024: Peter Shines in Acclaimed Reprisal of Joey Strom in The Time of Our Singing at La Monnaie
Peter has earned critical praise for his reprisal of Joey Strom in Kris Defoort’s The Time of Our Singing at La Monnaie in Brussels (revival production following winning the International Opera Award 2022). The production, conducted by Kwame Ryan and directed by Ted Huffman, explores themes of identity, race, and resilience through a powerful American story.
His portrayal of Joey has been highlighted by critics for its emotional depth and vocal brilliance. Res Musica commended his performance, noting that Peter brings “a highly adaptable timbre and a wide expressive range” to the role, capturing the character’s complex journey as he finds “a sense of commitment through his jazz playing and his passion for teaching.” Known for his diverse and extensive operatic repertoire, his interpretation has been praised for embodying the necessary “depth and complexity of human emotion.”
Olyrix added further praise, observing that Peter’s “very beautiful, brilliant colour stands out in the darkest tones of his baritone voice.”
Additional Reviews
“The British baritone Peter Brathwaite effectively demystifies the operatic role of Brother Joey through a dynamic theatrical performance and emotional insight. His guttural, dark, and highly expressive voice lends itself to natural and effortless phrasing.
”
— Olyrix
“The brother Joey, a pianist and the story's narrator, is portrayed by English baritone Peter Brathwaite, who possesses a beautiful burnished timbre and great fluency on stage.”
— Il Giornale della Musica
“Peter Brathwaite, a true master of vocal artistry.”
— Le Soir
“Peter Brathwaite passionately embodies the character of Joey, bringing a haunting depth to the role.”
— Opera Online