Who is Alinta Chidzey?
I am a chameleon of sorts. I am an actor, singer, dancer, songwriter, producer and obsessed with food and travel.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would have kept up playing the piano. Lord knows how helpful that would be now. I guess it’s never too late to pick it up again. I’d also would have kept learning Chinese growing up… that would have been useful.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by the movers and shakers of this world. People who create their own work and don’t wait for the phone call, in particular my colleagues: Michael Falzon, Elise McCann, Lucy Durack and Melissa Langton. Being proactive is vital in our industry let alone in life. Tim Minchin is an example of someone who creatively thinks outside the box and not afraid to try something different. I’m inspired by people who make a difference in our world. People who are behind companies like ‘Who gives a crap’ and the ‘Thank you’ brands who donate to 3rd world countries by selling an everyday product. Phenomenal!
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
It’s been on mind for a while now to create a piece that deals with empowering women in abusive relationships. It astounds me when I started looking into this issue that one woman per week dies from an abusive relationship. I think by educating both women and men is something we need to address in our society. Another thing that disturbs me is the amount of refugees who are displaced in this world. God knows how to solve this issue but there are amazing organisations that we can be a part of to help out.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Italy!!! It could be my second home. Every time I’ve been to Italy I go somewhere new and I’m never disappointed. The food, culture, scenery and history is so incredibly rich. I love their way of life… a chat over an espresso and pastry in the morning at your local café, their food is always fresh and local and the expression mi casa tu casa is a warm Italian quality I’ve always been attracted to and like to infiltrate in my life.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them to The Great Ocean Road. There is nothing like the views driving down this rugged coastline. Then I’d take them to one of the many incredible cafes/restaurants we have in Melbourne. I think we have one of the best cities for dining out!
What are you currently reading?
Shantaram… I’m still going… it’s a long book.
What are you currently listening to?
Gregory Porter. I love his voice and his music. I’d like to sing with him one day.
Happiness is?
A balanced life where I’m healthy, doing what I love and spending time with my friends and family.
What does the future hold for you?
This year is a creative dream. I’m releasing my first original music album I Got You with my band Alinta and the Jazz Emperors – Friday 26 April at The Jazzlab. I’ll be performing with my XL version of this band at Hamer Hall with my new show Divas – Past to Present, Monday 15 April. In the next couple months I have some great concerts with my nine piece band Hook Turn Orchestra.
In June this year it’ll be my debut show with the Victorian Opera playing the role of Petra in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music and following that I am beyond thrilled to perform the iconic role of Velma Kelly in Chicago the Musical.
As for the future, beyond what is planned I’d love to have my own food and travel show and do a movie musical. All my upcoming performances and news can be found on my website: www.alintachidzey.com
Image: Alinta Chidzey – photo by Blueprint Studios