Who is Daniel Assetta?
Daniel Assetta is a Australian-Italian actor, singer, dancer, producer and choreographer.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Nothing. I believe in trusting the process of life. I’m always setting goals for what I want to achieve and I spend my days working hard to turn them into a reality. I regret nothing – except for trying harder to incorporate more relaxing time in amongst the crazy.
Who inspires you and why?
Over time I have adored many different recording artists and theatre performers, whose talent has blown me away, creating more personal challenges to meet. I also am deeply inspired by many of my teachers, like Glenda Yee and William Forsythe, who were role models to me whilst training and growing up, and are now mentors I turn to for advice. And lastly, my incredibly hard-working husband, Tobias. He has shifted careers after many successful years within the theatre industry, and next year will be living out his dreams as a published young adult author with his debut book, Anything but Fine.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Well, in the current climate of 2020, I think bringing joy and entertainment back to people after a year where many have struggled is my ultimate goal. Being on stage is my happy place, and returning to live performance after so many months is going to be incredibly rewarding. If I can make someone smile, laugh and forget their worries, then my mission is accomplished. There is nothing quite like the escapism and power of theatre.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Over the years I’ve managed to squeeze in a couple of incredible holidays. New York is always at the top of my list, but a place that really won me over and I would fly there in a heartbeat again if I could, would be Japan. I absolutely fell in love with the place, the people, culture, and an added bonus was Disneyland (I’m such a big kid).
When friends come to town, whatattraction would you take them to, and why?
I always love taking friends to Circular Quay in Sydney. It’s a place where I have had very fond memories, spending many years as a child performing in the Opera. Even though I’m a Sydney local, there is just something so beautiful about sitting by the harbor taking in the views and strolling around the botanical gardens on a sunny day.
What are you currently reading?
I’m actually about to begin doing some research for my next project – Hamilton. So, I’ve ordered the Ron Chernow biography of Alexander Hamilton. Wish me luck. It’s a HUGE book filled with all of the detailed events surrounding the life of one of the founding fathers of America. I’m really excited to learn more about the American revolution and I’m sure it will provide great insight before starting work on the show.
What are you currently listening to?
The Broadway cast recording of Hadestown. I saw the show in New York in January and I think the score is just so clever. Obsessed!
Happiness is?
Being proud of who you are and the life that you are living out.
What does the future hold for you?
Well my immediate future is getting to put on a return season of Siblingship – a show I have created with my sister Chiara. Very excited to be doing the show again after a successful tour at the end of last year. And then I’ll be starting rehearsals for Hamilton in January, which is going to be EPIC. I’m excited and incredibly nervous to be tackling such a big show. And after that, who knows. I’ll guess I’ll just have to wait and see…
Daniel is joined by his sister Chiara in Siblingship. Following sold-out seasons in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra last year, Siblingship will be presented at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres from 17 – 19 December 2020. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au or www.siblingshipcabaret.com for details.
Image: Daniel Assetta (supplied)