On the Couch with Karli Dinardo

Karli Dinardo AAR On the CouchWho is Karli Dinardo?
I’m a Melbourne girl living and chasing her dreams in New York City, who is independent, determined, hard working, loyal, fun, caring and loving. I strongly believe in women uplifting and supporting other women and I choose positivity, love and acceptance always.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I am a big believer in the saying “everything happens for a reason.” Honestly, I wouldn’t do anything differently because the experiences I have had, whether successful or not, have ultimately taught me so much and lead me to where I am now. Which is exactly where I am meant to be!

Who inspires you and why?
There are many people who inspire me professionally and personally. These people share qualities of uplifting and supporting others around them; they genuinely care and celebrate others accomplishments and talents void of jealousy and comparison; they are insanely talented while also down to earth and humble and most importantly give back to the world in whatever capacity to help make a positive difference.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Well that’s quite a big question! I try to encourage people to spend less time on their phones, as I think human interaction is so important and if we really tried to become better communicators and listeners a lot of the larger issues in the world might be less severe. I like to give affirmation cards that encourage those around me, something to help give perspective each week, and I regularly give food/clothes to the homeless around me while also simply talking to them. A simple gesture of kindness can completely change someone’s day. One person at a time can make a big difference to this world.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Oh boy. I love exploring, and I have a long list of holiday destinations I want to go to! I was lucky enough to go to Europe with my family a few years ago which was so incredibly special. I loved seeing different parts of Italy, each city was just so beautiful with its unique culture, history, architecture, food and wine, museums etc… I also love Bali, there is something very serene, calming, peaceful and grounding about it and I think I relaxed the most I ever have there. A holiday is as much about company as it is the destination though and it’s not surprising that my favourites have always been with my family.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Now that I’m currently staying in Sydney, my answers would probably be the very touristy version! Bondi, Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House, a good coffee spot, and probably more beaches. I love the beach!

What are you currently reading?
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. I’ve watched her television show on Netflix and I absolutely love it.

What are you currently listening to?
I listen to a lot of different music but at the moment I have some insanely talented friends who have released some of their own music and their stuff has been on repeat for about a month. Target Practice – EP by Carvens Lissaint, everything Julia Harriman has ever released especially Sail Away, Ecos by Carmen Borla, and the recent cast recording of Songs From A New World, especially Solea Pfeiffer singing I’m Not Afraid Of Anything. Heaven.

Happiness is?
Feeling like you are emotionally, spiritually, mentally and physically in balance. For me happiness is ALL about balancing a hectic work schedule with time to meditate, spending quality time with friends and family, self discovery and showing gratitude. It’s enjoying Mother Natures breathtaking beauty anywhere in the world.

What does the future hold for you?
For the next couple months I’m thrilled to be in Sydney and getting to explore this city whilst doing West Side Story. Beyond that I am heading back to NYC excited for the limitless possibilities there.

Karli stars as Anita in Opera Australia’s production of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour – Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point: 22 March – 21 April 2019. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.

Image: Karli Dinardo (supplied)