
Name: Mark Pepe
Voice Type: Tenor
Role: Maximilian
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Is this your first time performing with DragonDiva?
This is actually my second performance with DragonDiva. The first was singing Frederick in Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. (Our very FIRST show!)
What attracted you to Candide?
I read the book by Voltaire many years ago, and it was the first time that a book made me laugh out loud. I jumped at the chance to audition for this production because I just knew that it was going to be a blast. And it really is.
Favourite thing about the role you are playing in Candide?
My favourite thing is the fact that Maximilian is nothing like me at all. He’s an attention getter and just has to be in the spotlight all the time. No matter what the circumstances.
Where did you find inspiration for your role?
I found inspiration in many places: Saved by the Bell, Seinfeld, even the Magic School Bus!
Favourite part of Candide?
Definitely the “Physics” lesson that Pangloss gives to Paquette. It reminds of me John Cleese giving the Sex Ed lesson in Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life.
What attracted you to the operatic stage?
Two things; I always loved music growing up and then I became drawn to drama in high school. Opera is a combination of the two, so it was a natural progression. Also, the sonic power of opera singers with an orchestra is incredible. I’m still amazed by the extremes of emotions that human voice can emit.
Would you recommend this opera to someone who has never seen one? Why?
Oh for sure! Anyone can be thoroughly entertained with this opera. The entire thing is a farce. It pokes fun at philosophy, religion, politics, and opera itself.
Favorite quote from Candide?
“Objection! What about snakes?”
Do you have a secret talent other than singing?
Cooking! I love cooking.
Favorite non-classical music?
Radiohead.
We're so happy things worked out for Mark to play Maximilian this summer. I'll tell you a secret... he's HILARIOUS! Don't miss your chance to see Mark in action. Ticket information is on our "upcoming" page.
Voice Type: Tenor
Role: Maximilian
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Is this your first time performing with DragonDiva?
This is actually my second performance with DragonDiva. The first was singing Frederick in Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance. (Our very FIRST show!)
What attracted you to Candide?
I read the book by Voltaire many years ago, and it was the first time that a book made me laugh out loud. I jumped at the chance to audition for this production because I just knew that it was going to be a blast. And it really is.
Favourite thing about the role you are playing in Candide?
My favourite thing is the fact that Maximilian is nothing like me at all. He’s an attention getter and just has to be in the spotlight all the time. No matter what the circumstances.
Where did you find inspiration for your role?
I found inspiration in many places: Saved by the Bell, Seinfeld, even the Magic School Bus!
Favourite part of Candide?
Definitely the “Physics” lesson that Pangloss gives to Paquette. It reminds of me John Cleese giving the Sex Ed lesson in Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life.
What attracted you to the operatic stage?
Two things; I always loved music growing up and then I became drawn to drama in high school. Opera is a combination of the two, so it was a natural progression. Also, the sonic power of opera singers with an orchestra is incredible. I’m still amazed by the extremes of emotions that human voice can emit.
Would you recommend this opera to someone who has never seen one? Why?
Oh for sure! Anyone can be thoroughly entertained with this opera. The entire thing is a farce. It pokes fun at philosophy, religion, politics, and opera itself.
Favorite quote from Candide?
“Objection! What about snakes?”
Do you have a secret talent other than singing?
Cooking! I love cooking.
Favorite non-classical music?
Radiohead.
We're so happy things worked out for Mark to play Maximilian this summer. I'll tell you a secret... he's HILARIOUS! Don't miss your chance to see Mark in action. Ticket information is on our "upcoming" page.