On the Couch with Christina Bianco

Christina Bianco Arts Review On the CouchWho is Christina Bianco?
An unapologetically peppy New Yorker who lives for music, food and conversation – and is constantly struggling to fight the stereotypes and limitations of her short stature.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
If I couldn’t be a performer, I’d be a sugar artist making fabulous cakes. Also I’d go to the gym a lot more. Meaning…I’d actually go.

Who inspires you and why?
Anyone with the courage to be themselves, with little regard to how others will view them. So many people just conform to what they think they should be doing and how they think they are supposed to act. I am inspired by people who break the mold and bravely set new trends.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d force everyone, everywhere to watch some form of live, artistic entertainment – music, dance, or theatre, etc – while cuddling adorable dogs. I think loving both the arts & animal can touch people emotionally in a way little else can. I’d like to think if more people were open to these things, the world would be a kinder, softer, more tolerant place.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Definitely London. Even though I’ve now worked there many times, I still see it through rose-colored glasses. I love all the history right in front of me – the architecture, the deep-rooted culture. I love the fact that it’s a major city and a melting pot but still has a slower, more quaint quality. (Compared to NYC at least! Also… it’s way more clean!)

I guess I’m a just a huge anglophile so pretty much everything about it is fascinating to me. Even their radio and television are exciting! (I want to be Graham Norton’s best friend). Somehow, even though everything there is still new to me, I always feel like I’m at home.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
All attractions to me revolve around food and drink. I’d start off with a stroll along The Highline, a scenic tour of the village, dinner at Joseph Leonard and drinks at Angel’s Share. (You can look those places up but then please swiftly forget them. They are small little gems and we don’t want them too crowded!)

What are you currently reading?
I’m re-reading and re-reading the play The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice by Jim Cartwright. I’m attached to the upcoming Broadway revival and it’s a dream come true. I’ve always loved the play and am just immersing myself in it in anticipation! I know that’s incredibly artsy and a bit pretentious but I’m willing to take the eye-rolls. #sorrynotsorry

What are you currently listening to?
I’m taking in the sounds of the Timor Sea! I’m currently sat on a breezy, cruise ship balcony at the moment. Something that is quite foreign to a city gal like me!

Happiness is?
Savoring the simple things. Like waking up late and enjoying a perfect flat white while snuggling with my dog Jeff.

What does the future hold for you?
After my first ever concerts in Australia, I’ll have some quality time back in NYC, then hopefully more performing around the globe, making a CD, and mastering how to make homemade pasta with my new stand-up  mixer. I’m a good Italian girl and I have my priorities.

Christina will bring her hit solo show Diva Moments to The Alex Theatre, St. Kilda on Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 March 2017. For more information, visit: www.alextheatrestk.com for details. Christina’s two shows at the Hayes Theatre Co. on Sunday 12 March have sold out.

Image: Christina Bianco (supplied)