Limmie Pulliam recently made operatic history when he stepped in on short notice to perform the role of Radamès in Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Aida at the prestigious Metropolitan Opera.
His acclaimed performance marked the first time a Black singer has sung the iconic role on the Met stage in the company’s 130-year history.
Last-Minute Debut Makes Operatic History
When the originally scheduled tenor had to withdraw from the production of Aida only days before opening night, Pulliam was tapped to fill the role. Although hired previously as an understudy, the dramatic tenor captivated audiences with his “powerful yet intimate sound” (San Francisco Classical Voice) from his very first solo.
Unbeknownst to Pulliam, his spectacular debut was also a groundbreaking one.
“It was one of my colleagues, Morris Robinson, who pointed it out that I was the first,” Pulliam revealed. “And I’m glad he told me afterwards— I was under enough pressure as it was just getting ready to perform.”
Triumphant Return To Opera After Hiatus
In an incredible twist of fate, Pulliam’s debut marked his triumphant return to opera after nearly a twelve year hiatus from singing. Disillusioned with the industry’s focus on his appearance over his vocal abilities, Pulliam had walked away to pursue other careers.
“I had thought it would be a break for about six months,” Pulliam shared. “Then life happened.” Between collections and private security work, a chance opportunity introduced him to politics, ultimately leading him to sing the national anthem at an event for President Obama’s first campaign.
“It really rekindled my interest in getting back into singing,” Pulliam said, sparking his journey back to the Met stage.
Reprising Historic Role At Tulsa Opera
Hot on the heels of his groundbreaking Met debut, Pulliam reprised the iconic role of Radamès in a special concert version of Aida at Tulsa Opera’s 75th-anniversary gala.
Soprano Michelle Bradley, who starred alongside Pulliam in the Met production, sang the title role. “Not everyone can do these roles, but he made it look and sound easy,” Bradley raved. “He was Radamès that night.”
The gala performance was led by Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Michelle DeYoung as Amneris, with a 70-member chorus and the Tulsa Opera Orchestra under acclaimed guest conductor Francesco Milioto.
Limmie Pulliam’s extraordinary artistry carved out a permanent place for him in operatic history. As the first Black tenor to perform one of the most iconic roles in opera, Pulliam epitomizes the power of triumphant second chances. From the revered stage of the Metropolitan Opera to thrilling audiences across the nation, his is a comeback story for the ages.
