Named Voice of the Heartland in 2018, Maddie Breedlove is an accomplished American mezzo-soprano and current Filstrup Resident Artist with Tulsa Opera. Celebrated for her remarkable versatility, Maddie captivates audiences through her seamless command of both comedic and dramatic roles, her radiant stage presence, and her deep commitment to authentic connection - whether with her characters, her colleagues, or the audience before her.
Equally at home in the worlds of opera, musical theatre, and contemporary music, Maddie’s artistry transcends genre. She has performed in musicals since the age of ten and continues to explore a wide range of styles including soul, pop, country, and classic rock. As the powerhouse lead vocalist of her cover and original band, Breedlove, she brings the same emotional depth and technical excellence that define her operatic performances.
Her notable stage credits include Tracy Turnblad (Hairspray), Sister Sophia (Sound of Music), Cinderella's Stepmother (Into the Woods), and Dorabella (Così fan tutte). Internationally, Maddie has appeared as the alto soloist in Haydn’s St. Nicholas Mass, Mozart’s Requiem, and Haydn’s Heiligmesse in Eisenstadt, Austria, and has toured across Poland as a featured soloist with the Zielinski Singers.
Maddie earned her Master of Music in Opera from the University of Oklahoma, where she studied under the mentorship of Dr. Delores Leffingwell, Dr. Donna Mitchell-Cox, Dr. Celia Wollenberg, Marilyn Horne, and Lorne Richstone.
Born under the Hawaiian sun to two dedicated Navy sailors, Maddie Breedlove came into the world surrounded by adventure, rhythm, and a soundtrack of classic rock and golden-age country. Her dad introduced her to classic rock, while her mom - whose voice could rival Patsy Cline’s - taught her the magic of storytelling through song. Maddie’s heart shines brightest in her role as big sister to her two wonderful little sisters (Morgan and McKenzie), with whom she shared songs, laughter, and countless cherished performances. She also treasures the musical spark passed down from her older sister (Kristin), who introduced her to the music that became the soundtrack of her childhood.
After ten unforgettable years in Hawaii (with a few in Japan in between), the Breedlove family moved to Norman, Oklahoma, when her dad retired from the Navy. The culture shock was real (flip-flops don’t go far in Oklahoma winters), but that move would prove pivotal for Maddie.
In Norman’s vibrant arts community, Maddie discovered her love for musical theatre, thanks to inspiring choir and drama teachers who encouraged her to dream big. With a gentle nudge from her high school choir teacher and mentor (Stephania Abell), she pursued classical training at the University of Oklahoma, earning both her Bachelor and Master of Music in Opera Performance.
After ten unforgettable years in Hawaii (with a few in Japan in between), the Breedlove family moved to Norman, Oklahoma, when her dad retired from the Navy. The culture shock was real (flip-flops don’t go far in Oklahoma winters), but that move would prove pivotal for Maddie.
In Norman’s vibrant arts community, Maddie discovered her love for musical theatre, thanks to inspiring choir and drama teachers who encouraged her to dream big. With a gentle nudge from her high school choir teacher and mentor (Stephania Abell), she pursued classical training at the University of Oklahoma, earning both her Bachelor and Master of Music in Opera Performance.
While perfecting her craft in opera, Maddie never strayed far from her musical theatre roots - performing in shows between recitals, rehearsals, and juries. To help pay the bills (and keep her creative spirit alive), she auditioned for a wedding and event band called SquadLive and landed the gig! There, under stage lights and guitar riffs, she met Sean Fisher, the band’s lead guitarist. The two quickly discovered that harmony extended far beyond the music and fell in love quickly.
Seven years later, Maddie and Sean now call Tulsa, Oklahoma home alongside their beloved dog (Beverly) and cat (Eddie). Maddie currently serves as a Filstrup Resident Artist with Tulsa Opera and performs across the Midwest in opera, musical theatre, and with her own cover/original band, Breedlove. Between teaching private voice lessons, performing with Sean, executing the role of Education and Engagement Manager at Tulsa Opera, being completely silly with everyone she meets and singing on stages big and small, Maddie continues to do what she loves most: share stories through music with heart, humor, and undeniable passion.
Seven years later, Maddie and Sean now call Tulsa, Oklahoma home alongside their beloved dog (Beverly) and cat (Eddie). Maddie currently serves as a Filstrup Resident Artist with Tulsa Opera and performs across the Midwest in opera, musical theatre, and with her own cover/original band, Breedlove. Between teaching private voice lessons, performing with Sean, executing the role of Education and Engagement Manager at Tulsa Opera, being completely silly with everyone she meets and singing on stages big and small, Maddie continues to do what she loves most: share stories through music with heart, humor, and undeniable passion.