Meet Brad Bickhardt | Tenor and Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brad Bickhardt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brad, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Perspective. Perspective from audiences who are giving time and money to be entertained, challenged, and engaged in our story telling onstage. Perspective of those who work endlessly long hours backstage to make sure our sets are safe, costumes fit, and the stage is lit. Perspective of your fellow cast-mates, who are here from different parts of the country and often times, the world. And of course, my own perspective, and what I am bringing to the table or the show. The arts as a career often become, by necessity, a very self centered business, so keeping in mind the perspective of your colleagues and audiences is essential to keep live performances impactful. I am fortunate enough to make my living by seeing the world through another character’s eyes, It is essential to maintain that in the “business” aspects of this job as well.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am very fortunate to have the career that I currently have at my age, and It would be remiss to not give that credit to my mentors and instructors whom I met at Indiana University, and who continue to guide me now. Whether from my parents, or teachers/vocal coaches, I have been encouraged and challenged to maintain authentic expression whenever I perform. Especially as a Korean-American, feeling as if I have “something to say” when I am performing has allowed me to stay grounded amidst the chaos that often follows an arts career. That being said, I also am motivated by the belief that myself, and many of colleagues have the ability to leave the opera and theatre world’s better off than where we found them, and there is also some responsibility in making sure we are prepared and willing to put in the work to do so.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Favorite Food Spots (Downtown)- Taco Boys, The Vig, Hanny’s, Windsor

Favorite Hike – Piestewa Peak

Entertainment – Arizona Opera performances at Symphony Hall!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Mom&Dad, Heidi&Kevin, P!

Website: bradbickhardt.com

Instagram: @thebicktator

Facebook: Brad Bickhardt – Tenor

Youtube: Brad Bickhardt – Tenor

Image Credits
Tim Trumble Photography Kristin Hoebermann Photography