Christopher Sokolowski is rapidly gaining recognition for his electrifying stage presence and commanding vocal artistry, marked by a “shimmering velvet voice” and “Wagnerian power” (Ôlyrix).
Praised for his “radiant high register” (Das Opernglas), Sokolowski’s 2024/25 season features a series of significant debuts. Following his acclaimed role debut as Lohengrin at Theater Bremen in September, he will perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 under the baton of Vladimir Jurowski with the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin at the Konzerthaus Berlin. He will then portray Manolios in Martinů’s The Greek Passion at Staatsoper Hannover, directed by Barbora Horáková. This summer, he makes his debut at the Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, taking on the complex role of Captain Vere in Britten’s Billy Budd in a new version commissioned by the Britten estate and directed by Ted Huffman.
Sokolowski’s debut in the title role of Wagner's Lohengrin debut at the Theater Bremen was celebrated in the press as “miraculous” and “mesmerizing” (Neue Musikzeitung), “masterful” (Kultur im Netz), and “sensational” (Klassik Begeistert). Critics praised his “baritonal color” and “metallic brilliance” (Concerti), his “exquisite piano” (Seen and Heard International), and his “authentic, effortless performance” (Klassik Begeistert), alongside a deeply human portrayal that captivated audiences.
Sokolowski’s debut in the title role of Verdi’s Ernani at Theater St. Gallen was met with equally high praise, with critics commending his musical security, precision, and “magnificent, melodious high notes” (Das Opernglas). His performance was described as “ideal casting” (Oper! Magazin, Kronenzeitung), while Das Opernglas further highlighted his distinctively individualized timbre and ability to shape phrases with elegance. His U.S. debut as the Prince in Prokofiev’s The Love for Three Oranges at Des Moines Metro Opera, conducted by David Neely, garnered acclaim for his “torrents of gleaming sound” and impressive vocal artistry (Opera Today).
Additional notable performances include his portrayals of Eisenstein (Die Fledermaus) and Tamino (Die Zauberflöte) at Theater St. Gallen, as well as a powerful performance as the tenor soloist in a scenic production of Verdi’s Messa da Requiem. His growing reputation was further cemented with debuts as Wagner and Nerèo in Boito's Mefistofele at Staatsoper Hannover, Ken in Vito Žuraj’s Blühen at Oper Frankfurt, and appearances at the Baden-Baden Festspiele and Opéra National du Rhin. As a former member of the Staatsoper Stuttgart Opera Studio, Sokolowski appeared in over 100 performances, showcasing his versatility across a broad range of roles.
Read More