Date of Birth: 1979
Place of Birth: Tromsø, Norway
Pronouns: He/him
Identity: Transgender, Sámi, queer
Field: Opera, Classical Music
Notable For: Being one of the first openly transgender opera singers in the world

Biography

Adrian Angelico is a Norwegian opera singer of Sámi descent who has gained international recognition for his mezzo-soprano vocal range and dramatic presence on stage. Born in Tromsø in 1979, he was raised in a culturally rich environment, with strong ties to both Norwegian and Sámi traditions. Before transitioning, Angelico performed under the name Angelika Voje, developing a significant career in opera that spanned multiple countries and prestigious venues.

He came out as transgender publicly in the 2010s, making headlines as one of the first professional opera singers to transition during an established musical career. His transition challenged long-held norms in the classical and opera communities, where gendered voice roles are often strictly adhered to. Angelico has spoken about the complexity of navigating a gendered profession, particularly as a mezzo-soprano, a voice type typically associated with female roles.

Despite the challenges, Angelico continued to thrive, taking on a wide variety of roles, particularly in pants roles (male characters sung by mezzo-sopranos) and embracing characters that allow for gender fluidity. His performances have been praised not only for vocal excellence but for the emotional depth and authenticity he brings to the stage.

Career Highlights

• Trained at the University of Oslo and the Royal Academy of Music in London
• Made his debut at the Royal Opera House in London
• Has performed in leading European opera houses including in Norway, Germany, and the United Kingdom
• Known for roles in operas by Mozart, Rossini, and Bizet, among others
• Featured in concerts and recitals advocating for greater representation of trans voices in classical music

Personal Identity and Advocacy

Adrian Angelico is vocal about his identity as a transgender man, and he has used his platform to advocate for inclusivity within the opera world. His Sámi heritage also informs his cultural and artistic identity, and he has supported indigenous representation in Scandinavian arts. His visibility is significant not only for the LGBTQ+ community but also for indigenous queer representation in the Nordic countries.

He has participated in interviews and panels discussing gender diversity in classical music, bringing attention to the limited roles and opportunities for transgender and nonbinary artists in opera. He continues to challenge assumptions about vocal classification, embodiment, and the rigid gendering of artistic expression in his field.

Legacy

Adrian Angelico represents a crucial intersection of identity in the performing arts: he is transgender, Sámi, and a trailblazing opera singer. His contributions extend beyond the stage into activism, representation, and challenging traditional structures in the classical music industry. As queer history continues to document the artists who shape cultural norms, Angelico stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and artistry.