Who is Fiona McArdle?
I’m an Adelaide based opera singer. I was born in Whyalla (regional SA) and grew up in Adelaide before heading overseas to train as an opera singer. I moved back to Adelaide, as many did, in late 2020 and have been making my home here ever since. I’m about to take the stage as Mercedes in State Opera’s production of Carmen at Her Majesty’s Theatre.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I spent a lot of time in my 20s trying to find something other than music to make a life from. While there are definite downsides to being a classical musician (job security being one of them) I don’t think I’d change anything.
Who inspires you and why?
I am constantly inspired by the women in my life. Their strength, perseverance, love and the way they find joy everyday. I am so lucky to be surrounded by such incredible women.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Shut down AI? Ensure that affordable housing is a right not a privilege? End discrimination? World peace? There are so many things I’d love to do that are so far out of my reach of influence. As it is I try to take each day as it comes, act with kindness, and do my bit to leave the world a little better than I found it.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Having lived there, I love whenever I can get back to London. Being able to see top musicals, operas, theatre and orchestras every night, and not having to pay more than $20-$50 to do so, is just so wonderful. Add in the free museums and parks, and the friends I get to see, it’s always on my list.
When friends come to town, what attractionwould you take them to, and why?
There’s so much to choose from in Adelaide! Personally, I don’t think it’s a visit to Adelaide without going to the Adelaide Central Markets and a walk on the beach at either Somerton or Henley.
What are you currently reading?
With all the research I’ve been doing as part of my PhD, I’ve started going back and re-reading some favourites from when I was younger. I’m currently reading Trudi Canavan’s The Black Magician Trilogy.
What are you currently listening to?
Carmen. My algorithm is always a mess when I’m preparing and rehearsing shows. When I’m not rehearsing it’s usually a mix of whatever is coming up next, alongside some music theatre, and a lot of pop, rock and punk from the 90s and 00s.
Happiness is?
Time in the sun with people you love and the giggles of my nieces and nephews.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m excited to bring Carmen to the stage this week, and to soon re-join the chorus for State Opera’s Golden Voices celebrating 50 Years of the State Opera Chorus. The end of the year is always a busy time for me, with Chamber Music Adelaide’s On The Terrace and then Christmas concerts and annual Messiah performances, although I’m looking forward to also finding time to catch up with family and friends as the year draws to a close.
Fiona stars as Mercedes in State Opera South Australia’s production of Bizet’s Carmen – which will be presented at Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre from 17 – 24 October 2026. For more information, visit: www.stateopera.com.au for details.
Image: Fiona McArdle (supplied)