Roland Hawkins boasts over 20 years of professional experience across a diverse array of musical venues and genres. As an active performer, educator, and creator, he is celebrated for his powerful tones and warm, affable delivery. Recognized for his extensive range and depth, his repertoire spans from operatic classics to cabaret standards.

Working with local institutions such as the Minnesota Opera, Chanhassen Dinner Theater, and Nautilus Music and Theater Co., Roland promotes outreach and engagement through live theater. He champions much-needed connectivity and a sense of community while cultivating an open environment. His innovative approach consistently subverts expectations, offering entertaining returns to beloved productions. Upcoming shows, including “Snowy Day” and “Gianni Schicci” will be paired with exciting new works like “Angel Face,” setting the stage for a thrilling 2025 production season.

Educated both in the classroom and on stage, Roland’s musical journey has taken him across the Midwest and beyond. His early operatic training has afforded him opportunities to collaborate with international directors and conductors in personal vocal coaching and character development. His evenings and weekends spent performing at one of the nation’s highest-grossing piano bars rekindled his passion for modern musical styles. As he pursues self-growth and competition on both local and national levels, Roland has received numerous accolades—including medals, scholarships, and awards from classical residencies and karaoke competitions.

Critics have praised his performances, with comments such as: “Roland Hawkins delivers the whiff of virtue and innocence as the newbie teacher, Mr. Tamino, with a lovely voice to match” (Talking Broadway); “Roland Hawkins II with a big voice and energy to match” (Cherry and Spoon); and “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). His powerful rendition of “This River” was noted for bringing the house down (Pioneer Press).

Guided by his core mission of education, inclusion, and community, Roland continues to receive positive reinforcement from audiences and critics alike for his nontraditional outreach performances. Reflecting on his experiences with civil rights and social justice, he states, “Education, inclusion, and community truly are staples of my artistry.” He actively coordinates with minority groups to provide concerts and charity events, giving back to the communities that have significantly contributed to his development.

From portraying legends like Bayard Rustin and James King to collaborating with celebrated figures and civil rights icons such as Simon Estes and the Tuskegee Airmen, Roland promotes cultural acceptance and understanding across various media forms and walks of life. His gospel-infused interpretation of “Purple Rain” garnered high praise: “Prince got another nod when singer Roland Hawkins sang a gospel-infused interpretation of ‘Purple Rain’” (Pioneer Press). Additionally, it was noted that “While all have lustrous voices that do full justice to Shen’s score, the power and clarity of Hawkins’ expression reaches a length further, to somewhere beyond the stars” (Talking Broadway).