Who is Jacqueline Dark?
Mother, opera/music theatre/cabaret singer, ex-physics and maths teacher, slightly bonkers but a very loyal friend.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’m currently working on not being so hard on myself. I hold myself to insanely high standards, both professionally and personally, so it might be time to go a little easier on myself.
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone who lives their life courageously and without worrying what other people think of them. My best friend Kanen is brilliant at this – he does what he feels is right, without dwelling on other people’s opinions of him, and I admire that hugely.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Teach every child from the youngest age to respect others. Education is the key to everything – if we can get that right, everything else will follow, as most prejudice and persecution stems from ignorance and fear.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My last holiday was in the 90’s! Sadly enough, I’m not even joking. As a singer, I’ve been so fortunate to be in work so constantly, but I wouldn’t say no to a week off somewhere. I’d love to visit Antarctica and Africa. Mind you, I’d no doubt be learning a new role on the trip!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
My most precious time with friends is spent over a gorgeous dinner and a bottle of wine, where we can chat away to our hearts’ content and laugh until we hurt. I’d take them to a fabulous local restaurant – not too pricey, but with a wonderful ambience where we can all relax. Oh, and the Opera House – I’m very proud of ‘The Office’ (as we folk who are lucky enough to work there call it), and most visitors to Sydney want to see it.
What are you currently reading?
So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson. I’ve adored him ever since I read The Psychopath Test, and I’m totally absorbed with this one. It’s about the rise of social media giving the silent majority a voice, and that voice being used as a tool for public shamings – ‘shame as a form of social control’. It’s terrifying and intriguing and astute – everything I’ve come to expect from him!
What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently self-producing my first ever CD, so I’ve been listening to rough takes of the songs as we mix it. It’s been terrifying but so rewarding! People have been asking if I have a CD for ages, so I thought it was high time to make one. It’s a brilliant opportunity to record my favourite songs in new ways – my musical director, Daryl Wallis, is an absolute genius and some of the arrangements are truly extraordinary! It’s also a wonderful chance to expose some lesser known songs and composers that I adore. Yes, Climb Ev’ry Mountain is on there … but in a gorgeous, innovative Wallis arrangement!
Happiness is?
Friends and family. Cuddles from my little boy, Alexander. Getting to live my dream every day and do the thing I love as a profession. Living your life with courage and kindness and not having regrets.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully much more singing of every flavour and watching my son grow up into a glorious young man.
Jacqueline is appearing as Mother Abbess in the Australian production of The Sound of Music, currently playing at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, before touring to Adelaide and Perth. For more information, visit: www.soundofmusictour.com.au for details.
Image: Jacqueline Dark