Who is Haotian Qi?
Passionate opera singer and a 5-star home chef (rated by my wife).
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Change my sleeping habits and be a morning person.
Who inspires you and why?
Dmitri Hvorostovsky. Not only was he a fantastic opera singer, he was a beautiful person inside and out. His love for music was great and he continued to sing and perform even through his hard times of sickness.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I myself probably won’t make a big difference to the world but small gestures of love, patience and kindness I believe have spreading power. When you give way to another driver there is probably more possibility that it would pass on. My belief comes from the scriptures from the Bible. Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Corinthians 13:4–8
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Switzerland was so far my favourite holiday destination. It was one of our honeymoon destinations. I appreciate beautiful scenery and Switzerland is full of it!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
So many places I would like to take them! First place I’d take them to would be the iconic Sydney Opera House, Cockatoo Island where we performed Carmen, the Blue Mountains, Wollongong and more!
What are you currently reading?
I read the Bible and it’s very fascinating!
What are you currently listening to?
La Bohème and Korean indie pop music.
Happiness is?
When I catch a big fish in Lake Macquarie.
What does the future hold for you?
Further development and experience as an opera singer. Maybe a father in the near future!
Haotian stars as Marcello in Opera Australia’s production of La Boheme – currently playing in the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House until 11 March 2023. For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Haotian Qi – courtesy of Opera Australia