Who is Celeste Lazarenko?
I am an Artist. I am a trained Opera Singer, both internationally and locally. I am a fourth-generation stolen-generation Kuyani woman. I am the daughter of a Russian/Chinese Immigrant. I have a degree in painting from Sydney College of the Arts. I have worked at Opera Australia on and off since I was 15, with whom I currently have a full-time job. I am also a soloist who works around Australia. I am lucky enough to live on Gadigal land.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would have liked to have been more proficient in learning a second language.
Who inspires you and why?
A couple of days ago I went and saw Gilgamesh by Jack Symonds with Sydney Chamber Opera and Opera Australia at Carriageworks. The whole groovy gang of performers / composers / directors / designers that the ensemble attracts are all incredibly inspiring. They are all immensely talented and I am always inspired by their gall and bravery. I’ve also been lucky enough to work with them all a couple of times.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I could turn back time, I would change the outcome of the referendum of the Voice to Parliament. I am still heartbroken with the outcome of the vote and it just shows how much further we have to go to change the way people think about Indigenous people, and the way they are treated in this country.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I try to visit Bali every year. I usually head to Ubud and radiate out from there. The Balinese people are some of the most welcoming and generous people I’ve ever met and I’ve formed some close friendships along the way, even visiting their families and homes. Every year that I’ve returned, I’ve noticed massive changes to the landscape. I really hope Bali learns to protect itself for the future.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to and why?
I take them for a walk around the harbour line around Balmain. I’ve lived there almost my whole life, and there is nothing as spectacular as seeing the harbour and bridge on a day where the sun is sparkling off the water. And, of course, a turn around the Sydney Opera House. Iconic.
What are you currently reading?
Recently my mother passed away from cancer and I discovered a book called Love is Strong as Death which is a collection of poetry put together by Paul Kelly. On the back of the book there is a quote from Paul Kelly that says;
Poetry is deep play.
It’s comfort.
It’s challenge.
Just like a friend
And I couldn’t agree more.
What are you currently listening to?
I always find this question challenging because I’m always listening to many things over the course of the day. Today, for example, I will listen to a bit of Sisyphus by Golden Features on the bus to work, possibly, and then we will work on some Faure Requiem, then some Mozart Requiem, and some The Magic Flute (which I am currently preparing for Opera Australia and performing in November 2024). I’m so lucky because listening to music is what I get to do for most of the day, everyday!
Happiness is?
Belly laughing at the antics of my sausage dog, Ollie.
What does the future hold for you?
I really hope my future involves finding more creative projects to be involved in. I hope that means participating in projects that I find interesting, and less about the amount of work I do. Quality not quantity.
Celeste stars as Pamina in Opera Australia’s production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute – which will be presented at the Geelong Arts Centre from 9 – 16 November 2024. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Celeste Lazarenko – photo by Louis Dillon Savage