New Bedford Native Shares Life on Stage in New Memoir

New Bedford native Ron Boucher first began thinking about a career on stage when he was a small boy. He realized that dream in a big way, performing with the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Opera, and the Emmy-winning Prince Street Players.

Boucher has now published his memoir, entitled Prelude: A Journey of Growth, Song, and Self-Discovery. During an interview for Townsquare Sunday, he shared his memories of growing up in New Bedford's North End, the influence of family members, his career on stage, and his recent contributions to the performing arts.

Early Life in New Bedford’s North End

"My French-Canadian grandmother was a major influence for me," Boucher said. "She started me with music at a very young age. Church was also a huge influence. I grew up at St. Anthony's Church in New Bedford, and the pageantry of the concerts there was my early theater. I was addicted to it, hook, line and sinker."

Finding His Voice Through Church and Theater

Boucher later took on lead roles in elementary school and high school productions, and performed on stage in Boston before being hired for productions in New York.

From Boston Stages to New York Opera Houses

Boucher described performing with the Metropolitan Opera in 1979 "as an experience one can only imagine."

"I met some incredible directors, musicians and singers, both there and at the New York City Opera," he said. "It was just an unbelievable education for someone who didn't have any formal background in opera. I was learning fast and furious, as they say."

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After a career on stage singing and dancing, Boucher moved to Virginia in 1992. His wife is international ballerina Sandra Balestracci, also a New Bedford native.

Life After the Stage and a New Role in Arts Education

Boucher is currently the Arts Education Manager for The American Theater in Hampton, Virginia, in charge of all educational programming.

For young people involved in the performing arts, Boucher suggests they should love what they do. "You have to be passionate about your art," he said. "You should understand why you're doing it. Enjoy the rehearsals, enjoy the process. The performance is where you'll get your immediate gratification."

Prelude is available on Amazon and at bookstores, including Barnes & Noble.

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