Janitor chases dream job as an opera singer
CHICAGO — Keanon Kyles’ alarm goes off at around 6:00 am every day.
Then he heads to one of his day jobs for a full shift.
Afterwards, he clocks in at ABC 7 for his custodial job from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Don’t forget about the hours he spends in voice lessons and the hours he spends practicing his top priority: the opera.
You see, Kyles may work long hours (90 hours a week to be exact) but it’s all part of his journey to someday become a professional opera singer.
“Sometimes I wonder where my energy comes from. But honestly, I think I am so on fire for my dream that time and sleep become a luxury rather than a necessity,” Kyles says.
The 28-year-old says he averages about 24 hours of sleep per week but that’s only because he’s busy filling his schedule with opera rehearsals, auditions and gigs.
His hard work is paying off. Kyles just landed a lead role in a stage production of Puccini’s opera La Boheme in Scotland. He’s the only American to be selected for this opera and will perform it for nine days at the Edinburgh International Festival this summer.
“I’m excited about being an ambassador for the States. I’m also excited about sharing my gift in front of an audience I’ve never performed in front of,” Kyles says.
Kyles says the message in his story is this: “Never be afraid of hard work and dedication. Never give up on yourself and learn to encourage yourself.”
Hear more of his singing talents here.
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