Following his resounding success in the title role of Le nozze di Figaro at English National Opera in 2020 and Opera Ballet Vlaanderen in 2023, Bass-Baritone Božidar Smiljanić is a highly promising operatic talent, steadily establishing himself as a versatile vocalist with exceptional acting prowess.
As a valued member of the ensemble at Oper Frankfurt since 2018/19, Božidar Smiljanić has built a solid foundation within the company. His forthcoming roles for the 2023/24 season include the title roles in new productions of Don Pasquale and Le nozze di Figaro, as well as Achilla in a new production of Giulio Cesare in Egitto. In previous seasons, he has undertaken a diverse range of roles, particularly in Handel's operas as Zoroastro (Orlando), Garibaldo (Rodelinda), and Ariodate (Xerxes). Additionally, he has showcased his versatility with performances as Eumée in Fauré's Pénélope, Don Magnifico in Rossini's Cenerentola, Fernando Villabella in Rossini's La gazza ladra, and Sprecher in Mozart's Die Zauberflöte.
Božidar Smiljanić has also established a strong presence on the concert stage, showcasing his versatility with a wide range of oratorio works. His repertoire includes, to name but a few, Elgar's Dream of Gerontius, Dvořák's Stabat Mater, Walton's Belshazzar's Feast, Verdi's Requiem, Beethoven's Symphony No.9, Bach's St John and St Matthew Passions as well as a substantial number of Bach's cantatas.
Photo credit Nathan Haller