Who is Shauntai Abdul-Rahman?
I am a Wiradjuri Soprano, Composer, Theatre Maker and a licensed Minister, born and raised on Gadigal Country and for the past 15 years I have been living on Boonwurrung Country.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I do love a good suspense thriller, so I’d probably want to be a detective. Like an Australian Olivia Benson from Law & Order SVU. But honestly, I am living my dream right now – singing, composing, and performing stories that matter. Stories that add to the tapestry of opera, gospel and theatre.
Who inspires you and why?
What inspires me most is resilience. Someone who chases their dreams, works hard, falls down and gets back up. Someone who leads with honesty, respect, and humility – who treats people well and sees strength in being vulnerable. Those are the people I learn the most from.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
To be honest, I try every day to make a difference just by showing up. By reaching out, loving hard, listening deeply, and caring. And when there’s nothing more I can do, I pray. I think small acts of kindness and understanding add up. If I had to choose one cause to support, it would be supporting Victim-Survivors.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I do love beautiful Cairns! The beaches, the reef, and being surrounded by rainforest and Country. It’s so peaceful. I feel grounded there, like I can just breathe and reset. When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Living in Naarm (Melbourne), I’d take them to the Arts Precinct first. We’d see a show at the Arts Centre, then walk across the bridge over the Birrarung – that’s my favourite spot in the city. After that we’d catch a tram down to St Kilda, grab fish and chips at the beach, and watch the sunset.
If they’re here longer, I’d take them to the Hot Springs, the Mornington Peninsula, and along the Great Ocean Road. There are so many beautiful places here. I always feel inspired and refreshed visiting them, and I love sharing that with people.
What are you currently reading?
I’ve just started reading a book written by one of my colleagues Katherine Wiles: No Autographs, Please! A backstage pass to life in the Chorus – the stars who take their bow from the second row. It’s absolutely brilliant, loving every moment! Such a great read!
What are you currently listening to?
I love my gospel music. Goodness of God by CeCe Winans always puts things into perspective for me. I’m also grateful to be hearing and singing the extraordinary music of George Palmer’s score of The Drover’s Wife.
Happiness is?
Happiness is safety and peace. It’s knowing you’re loved, and being free to love back. It’s being seen, being heard, and being surrounded by people who genuinely care for you.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope for a future where I’m still singing, composing, writing and giving to others in music and in life. A future where I’m living healthier, growing wiser, and loving harder. That’s it really. Anything else is a bonus.
Shauntai stars as Black Mary in Opera Australia’s production of The Drover’s Wife (Leah Purcell and George Palmer AM) – which will be presented in the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House from 7 – 15 August 2026. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Shauntai Abdul-Rahman (supplied)