Colm Wilkinson, a talented tenor and actor, was born on May 5, 1944, in Ireland. He was the sixth child out of ten born to parents who were both skilled musicians. Growing up in a musical household, it was no surprise that Wilkinson developed a love for music from a young age. He learned to play several instruments and was often surrounded by the sound of music.
Despite his musical upbringing, Wilkinson initially chose to follow a different path. He joined the family contracting business but soon realized that his true passion lay elsewhere. As a teenager, he made the bold decision to leave the family business behind and pursue a career as a professional musician. This decision would prove to be life-changing for Wilkinson.
Wilkinson's journey into the world of music and theater began with small, local performances. He quickly caught the attention of industry professionals with his powerful voice and stage presence. His big break came when he landed the role of Jean Valjean in the original West End production of Les Miserables. Wilkinson's portrayal of the iconic character received critical acclaim and set the stage for his future success.
Following his success in Les Miserables, Wilkinson went on to originate the role of Jean Valjean on Broadway, solidifying his status as a leading man in musical theater. He also took on the titular role in The Phantom of the Opera, further showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Outside of his career, Wilkinson found happiness in his personal life. In 1970, he married his wife, Deirdre, and together they welcomed four children into the world: Aaron, Judith, Sarah, and Simon. Despite his demanding schedule and frequent travels, Wilkinson always made time for his family and cherished the moments spent with his loved ones.
Wilkinson's talent extended beyond the stage, as he released several solo albums throughout his career. In 2010, he released Broadway and Beyond: The Concert Songs, showcasing his remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. This album was a testament to Wilkinson's enduring passion for music and his dedication to his craft.
Prior to Broadway and Beyond, Wilkinson released Some of My Best Friends Are Songs in 2002, a collaborative album with his son. The album featured a moving cover of the Cat Stevens song "Father and Son," showcasing Wilkinson's ability to connect with his audience on a personal level.
Throughout his career, Wilkinson had the privilege of collaborating with renowned composer Andrew Lloyd Webber on multiple occasions. One of the most memorable collaborations was Wilkinson's role as the Phantom in the Sydmonton workshop production of The Phantom of the Opera in 1985. His haunting portrayal of the Phantom solidified his status as a musical theater legend and cemented his place in Broadway history.
Wilkinson's contributions to the world of musical theater have left a lasting impact, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring performers around the globe. With his powerful voice, magnetic stage presence, and unwavering dedication to his craft, Colm Wilkinson has rightfully earned his place as one of the greatest performers of his generation.