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I’ve had the pleasure of working with Russell Tautenhahn at Houston Grand Opera, and I can recommend him without hesitation. He is consistently reliable and professional—always well prepared, on time, and ready to work. On stage, he brings a natural presence that feels genuine, which serves both the production and his fellow performers well. Just as importantly, he is a thoughtful and supportive colleague, contributing positively in the rehearsal room.
-Alexandra Lietzow (Artistic and Music Coordinator, Houston Grand Opera)


What strikes me so profoundly about Russell’s participation in this big ensemble project [Leopoldstadt] is his versatility and his commitment to the larger ensemble. He gives a beautifully grounded and compelling performance in a pivotal role and brings his whole self to the process without drama or insecurity, making a valuable contribution to the whole.
-Rebecca Greene Udden (Founding Artistic Director, Main Street Theater)
On Leopoldstadt:
Russell Tautenhahn,
solid and affecting.
-D.L. Groover (Houston Press)
Russell brings his experiences, talents, vision, and bold comedic instincts into the rehearsal room. He is a thoughtful collaborator who strengthens the creative process, and his work in rehearsal translates authentically and entertainingly on stage.
-ShaWanna Renee Rivon (Founder of Houston’s August Wilson in the Park, BANF 2025 Artist Awardee, Playwright, Director)


Russell collaborates kindly, diligently, and with thoughtful care. He asks the right questions and shows up prepared, always with a smile. He took a challenging and often alienating role [Bertram, All’s Well That Ends Well], and truly made it his own with his gentle charm and disarming earnestness. A joy to work with and any production would be fortunate to have him on the team.
-Philip Hays (Houston-Based Director, Actor)
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