Who is Natalie Jones?
I’m a classical singer who works predominantly in opera but also loves the concert platform. I was born in Ballarat, moved to Melbourne for university, moved to Sydney for the opera house and then moved to Sweden with my Swedish husband and our three children. We have now relocated back to Melbourne and I have almost come full circle.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
One of my daughters is a figure skater and honestly, I want to be her! It was a childhood dream that I never had the chance to fulfil. I used to put on my thickest socks and slide around on the parquetry floor, but it didn’t quite cut it. I love standing in the ice hall at 5.45am, ridiculous start time notwithstanding, watching her spin and soar through the air. Unashamedly living vicariously.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by the incredibly talented group of creatives and cast involved in the production of The Spare Room, not to mention the brilliant Helen Garner. The novel is a sublime piece of writing, and this new opera is the perfect vehicle for her words. When I met Helen for the first time, I was a bit star struck and could barely string a sentence together. I ended up thanking her for being her which was so embarrassing at the time. On reflection though, I was just being honest.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Wow that’s a tough, enormous question! I won’t tackle the larger issues, but on a smaller scale, I think it would be great if we brought back letter writing. I’m so sad it is a form of communication that has all but disappeared. When I was in my early twenties and living and studying in London, my mum wrote to me every week and I wrote back. I still have all those letters. They are a beautiful diary of a special time in my life and of the love we share. I wish I had more.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Japan. The ideal family holiday. Snowboarding on powder all day, eating incredible food, gorgeous accommodation options and the Japanese are the friendliest, loveliest people you will ever meet.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The beach. Ocean, not bay. A day trip to the coast to catch some surf and wriggle your toes in the sand, summer or winter.
What are you currently reading?
I’m aware that this is bad and it is seriously my New Year’s resolution every year, but I don’t read unless I’m on a holiday. Maybe the solution is more holidays.
What are you currently listening to?
Raye’s latest album This Music May Contain Hope. I don’t usually listen to vocal music to relax because it’s hard to switch off listening to singers, but I love her fearless artistry and the ease of her style.
Happiness is?
A long, long walk on a sunny day with time to think.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope to watch my kids grow into themselves as they become young adults weaving their own paths. For myself, I hope I can find more time to create. Working on The Spare Room, soaking up the creative energy in the rehearsal room and exploring this new role has been a joyous gift.
Natalie stars as Helen in Victorian Opera’s production of The Spare Room – which will be presented in the Playhouse – Arts Centre Melbourne from 7 – 10 October 2026. For more information, visit: www.victorianopera.com.au for details.
Image: Natalie Jones (supplied)