Who is Etta D’Elia?
Etta is an Italian-born jazz vocalist and bandleader. She moved to Perth 12 years ago with a suitcase full of dreams, including the ambition to make it in the Perth music scene – she was fortunate enough to see that dream come true!
Etta now produces and performs original jazz shows, including her signature Italian show, Buona Sera Signorina, which has been presented for two consecutive years at the State Theatre Centre of WA during Fringe 2023 and 2024, as well as at Adelaide Fringe 2024.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
A girl with a dream can’t afford to miss a beat! Because of this, my life is often frantic and sometimes a bit overwhelming. If I could, I would take more time for myself and my family, spend more moments with my dog, Figaro, and enjoy the company of my friends.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by the lives of legendary women who have made an impact not only in the music industry but also in people’s lives. Among all the jazz idols, my greatest admiration goes to Eartha Kitt – a talented singer, incredible entertainer, and outspoken woman who bravely opposed the Vietnam War.
Eartha has inspired me as both an artist and a woman, so much so that I’ve dedicated a show to her, Santa Baby: Eartha Kitt’s Legacy, which will be performed on 8 December at the Ellington Jazz Club.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would invest in educating the next generation to embrace diversity – whether cultural, gender, ability or lifestyle differences – by helping children listen to others’ stories and view these differences as enriching rather than something to fear.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My ideal holiday would be riding in an old-fashioned taxi that magically transports me to 1920s Paris (just like in Midnight in Paris). I can only imagine the thrill of sitting at Le Bœuf sur le Toit, sharing a drink with Stravinsky and Picasso, while Cole Porter could be in the corner, possibly even humming one of his latest tunes! Since this is not possible, my next trip to Italy will have to do!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would bring them to Rottnest Island, as quokkas are total WA superstars, and the beauty of the nature and beaches is just incredible and unique! I would also visit the Pinnacles, as the quiet atmosphere makes me feel like we’re on the moon.
What are you currently reading?
I am reading The Man Who Forgot His Wife by John O’Farrell. It’s about Jack, who wakes up one day and can’t remember his wife or their life together. As he tries to remember, the story humorously explores love, memory and starting over.
What are you currently listening to?
I listen to a lot of music due to my job and because I really need to. From Ella Fitzgerald and Eartha Kitt to Miles Davis, from old Neapolitan songs to 70s hits by Al Stewart and Billy Joel, and from Debussy to Billie Eilish. Music is definitely the most important part of my life.
Happiness is?
Happiness is being able to fulfil your true calling in life and live a lifestyle that reflects your values and who you truly are. For me, happiness is being able to be a singer and a musician, just as I have always dreamed. Happiness is also a stone-baked pizza, Neapolitan style, with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil… Ah, don’t forget the olive oil!
What does the future hold for you?
In my near future, there’s an exciting new FRINGE WORLD production at the State Theatre Centre of WA. The show is called From Naples… With Love! and is a jazz reimagining of Neapolitan classics such as O Sole Mio, Funiculì Funiculà, and Torna a Surriento. It’s a show I am really passionate about, as it gives me the chance to share my culture and my music with the Australian audience, adding my personal jazz twist to it.
Etta will present Santa Baby, Eartha Kitt’s Legacy for one night only at The Ellington Jazz Club on Sunday 8 December 2024. You can also catch Etta at Fringe World Perth in her brand-new show, From Naples…With Love, which is playing for a strictly limited season at The Courtyard – State Theatre Centre of WA from 31 January – 2 December 2025.
Image: Etta D’Elia (supplied)