Thomas Smolej

Behind every public triumph lies a private struggle; Thomas Smolej's remarkable rise was no exception, marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence amidst early challenges. Born on 24 September 1982 in Villach, Carinthia, Austria, Smolej's formative years were steeped in the rich cultural tapestry of his homeland. He honed his craft at BORG Klagenfurt, focusing on music, and further refined his acting skills through rigorous training at the Viennese Examination Board. His dedication to the craft led him to study voice under renowned instructors such as Ronald Pries and Jack Poppell at the Klagenfurt Conservatory, and later, speech techniques with Biggi Weidinger. These formative experiences laid the foundation for a multifaceted career in the performing arts. Smolej's professional journey is marked by a diverse array of roles across stage and screen. He gained early recognition for his performances in productions like 'Medicopter 117 - Jedes Leben zählt' and 'Burnout'. His stage credits include notable works such as 'Romeo und Julia' at the Internationales Shakespeare-Festival Neuss and 'Das Gespenst von Canterville' at Theatersommer Haag. As a director, he has brought to life productions like 'Don Carlos 06' and 'Trotz aller Therapie', showcasing his versatility and vision. Beyond acting and directing, Smolej has made significant contributions as a voice actor, lending his talents to commercials and documentaries for prominent brands including McDonald's, Nissan, and T-Mobile. His commitment to the arts extends to academia, where he has served as a lecturer in speech technique at the University of Vienna. Rooted in this philosophy, he continues to inspire and mentor aspiring artists. Decades later, Thomas Smolej's indelible impact endures - inspiring new generations across Austria and beyond, leaving us with the enduring lesson that artistic integrity and dedication to craft transcend the confines of the stage.