Who is Dalibor Jenis?
Dalibor Jenis is an opera singer who is about to play the role of Rigoletto at the Sydney Opera House. Rigoletto is a poor character. Deformed, poor, but funny. He is an unhappy dad who cannot accept reality and lives in a small world separated from everyone. In this world lives his daughter Gilda. She is a young girl who wants to know the world, but due to the strict rules of her father, lives like a prisoner.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I am more or less happy with everything I have done up until now. I think my decisions have been right, even if sometimes they were hard. But I believe that if I had to do it all again, I would do everything as I did. I’m not the kind of person who dwells on the past. I think that too much analysis on the past could make me insecure. Insecurity in my profession is not accepted.
Who inspires you and why?
I am very inspired by the books of Erich Maria Remarque. Above all, the character of Dr. Ravick has been for me the ideal man. When I feel insecure, I think “what would Dr. Ravick do in a situation like this?”
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I am too young to understand the world. But if I was lent a magic stick and granted a wish, it would be to eliminate the armed forces and the factories that produce weapons.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favorite place to holiday is in my hometown of Bratislava. During the year I travel the world, and so being at my home is very important to me. I love to relax with my family, as well as to go to the mountains in my little village with my friends. In the middle of nature, under the stars, watching the fire, chatting until morning.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
My city, Bratislava, is very interesting. The historic centre is small and full of life. Above the Donau River there is a restaurant called the UFO. It is shaped as an oval, like a spaceship, and from there you can see the whole city from a great height.
What are you currently reading?
Currently I am only reading scores. The past 6 months I have had to learn 4 new roles. I don’t have time for books right now … but hopefully in the next few months, I will be able to start reading again.
What are you currently listening to?
Rigoletto, Rigoletto and Rigoletto again.
Happiness is?
To be healthy.
What does the future hold for you?
I would like to continue with my job for a few more years, and then I hope to eventually become a grandfather.
Dalibor stars in the titular role in Opera Australia’s production of Verdi’s Rigoletto at the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House: 6 July – 24 August 2018. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Dalibor Jenis (supplied)