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Friday, November 15, 2002

By Andrew Druckenbrod, Post-Gazette Classical Music Critic

Vivica Genaux is not the only nationally known, locally based singer in Pittsburgh Opera's production of "La Cenerentola."

Kevin Glavin, here in "Le Nozze di Figaro,"portrays Don Manifico in "La Cenerentola.". (Suellen Fitzsimmons photo)

Bass Kevin Glavin, who will play the role of Don Magnifico, is a native Pittsburger. He is a past winner of the Luciano Pavarotti Competition and has starred in basso buffo roles with the New York City Opera, Glimmerglass, Boston Lyric Opera and others.

He may be able to sing in five languages, but he still speaks yinzer. Just to make sure, we thought we'd quiz him on himself, the 'burgh and beyond.

Where were you born and when?

Allegheny General Hospital, May 1960.

What high school did you attend? Can you still sing the fight song?

North Hills, I still remember the alma mater.

Where do you live now?

Ross Township, with my wife Nancy, and two sons, Kevin and Sean.

What's your favorite role to sing and why?

Any of the shows I sing, because I love to make people laugh.

What's the strangest/funniest thing that's ever happened to you on stage?

A: My unmentionables made an appearance in a show. That was strange and funny.

What's your favorite local pizza joint?

Monte Cello's on Babcock Boulevard in the North Hills.

What's your favorite local sports team?

Da Stillers.

Austin Powers or James Bond? Why?

Ohhhhhhhhhhh behave, I've got MOJO, baby!

What has been the most exciting thing about your career as an opera singer?

Getting the opportunity to travel all over the world.

Myron Cope ... take him or leave him?

Take him, but only with my good buddy Billy Hillgrove.

Who's your favorite native Pittsburgher: Gene Kelly, Dennis Miller, Michael Keaton, Jeff Goldblum, Jonas Salk, Dan Marino, Stephen Foster and why?

I don't see my name on the list.

What made you decide to make your home here after building a successful career?

Pittsburgh is a great place to raise a family, and the people are real here.

What's the best place in Pittsburgh to spend a relaxing weekend day with your family?

Is this a trick question? Mentioning family and relaxation in the same sentence?

Primanti's or The O?

Primanti's.

What was your family like growing up? What number child were you and were your parents musicians?

I had a great childhood growing up in Pittsburgh; I have two brothers, Dave and Mike, and a sister Maureen. I'm the Big Baby.

What's your favorite rock or pop band?

Queen.

Andrew Druckenbrod can be reached at adruckenbrod@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1750.