Roland Hawkins II
Roland has over 20 years of professional experience in a wide variety of musical venues and genres. An active performer, educator, and creator in a myriad of musical styles he is known for his powerful tones and warm affable delivery. Roland is also acknowledged for having a wide range as well as depth in repertoire from operatic classics to cabaret standards.
Returning this season to work with Minnesota opera and Minneapolis Musical Theater Co. Roland promotes outreach and engagement through live theater. These productions bring a much-needed connectivity and sense of community in this divisive era. An open environment and subverted expectations create an entertaining return to beloved companies. These productions (“Daughter of the Regime” and “Analog and Vinyl”) pair well with the house premiere at Theater Latte da (in the production of “We shall someday”) and A Portland Opera company debut in “The Marriage of Figaro”. These productions combined with new work cultivation with the Opera Reading Project (“Balls” and “Once upon the wind”)and continued workshops with Theater Latte da (“La Llorona” and “Macbeth”) make for an exciting 2023 production season.
Educated not only in the classroom but on the stage, Roland has gained a wide range of musical experiences both in the Midwest as well as nationally. Crediting early operatic training, Roland has worked with international directors and conductors on personal vocal coaching and character development. Evenings and weekends spent performing at the highest grossing national piano bar rekindled and cultivated a love for modern forms and musical styles. All this while keeping a love of self-growth and competition both locally and nationally, Roland has been awarded metals and accolades from classical to karaoke competitions. “Roland Hawkins delivers the whiff of virtue and innocence as the newbie teacher, Mr. Tamino, with a lovely voice to match.”-Talkinbroadway, “Roland Hawkins II with a big voice and energy to match” -Cherryandspoon “Roland Hawkins II, who plays Julius, projects with a rich and resonant tenor. His instrument, expressive and flexible, floats as needed between the pleasing lyric and troubled duskiness. – Star Tribune:While promoting one of his core mission statements, Roland continues to get positive reinforcement from audiences and critics alike for doing nontraditional and outreach performances.
“Education, inclusion, and community truly are staples of my artistry” Roland states as he reflects on civil rights and social justice works throughout his tenure as a performer. Coordinating with minority groups to give concerts and charity events Roland gives back to communities that have been influential in his development and growth. From portraying forgotten legends such as Bayard Rustin and James King, to working with current celebrities and civil rights icons such as Simon Estes and the Tuskegee airmen, Roland has been able to promote cultural acceptance and understanding throughout many media forms and walks of life.
