Justin Tysdal: What is the latest opera you’ve been in?
Frankie Espinoza: (The) Grapes of Wrath. I played the grandpa, so they had to do hardcore makeup and wigs. It was a really fun role to play. I usually get cast as the funny characters.
Tysdal: What are you currently working on?
Espinoza: Right now I’m working on Il viaggio a Reims.
Tysdal: Other than opera, what’s some other music that you listen to?
Espinoza: Besides my rehearsal music, I like pop music. I never listen to the radio though. My friend always texts me new music and it’s always more dance-oriented.
Tysdal: Dance? Would you say you’re more Britney or Christina, then?
Espinoza: I would say I love Christina’s vocals because I’m more a vocal person. For me, when it comes to listening to music, it’s more about how good the person can sing versus how good the beat is. Oddly enough, I listen to more dance music, so in that case I would be more Britney.
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Tysdal: The fall television season is beginning. Are there any shows that you can’t miss?
Espinoza: America’s Next Top Model just started and I have loved all the seasons. I like reality television both funny and romantic, like Real Chance of Love. I also watch Chelsea Lately because she’s really funny and it’s good for a laugh before I go to bed.
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Tysdal: What role does music play in your life?
Espinoza: It plays a really big role, like it’s my number two. My number one would be my family. It played a big enough role that I decided to major in it. It’s been a part of me since I was little. I have always been really intrigued in how all this works [points to his throat]. It’s a way I can express myself, and it’s a way I can get out of the real world and all the mess that goes on with politics and the economy. It’s the one time I can escape.
