Who is Paul Ettore Tabone?
I am a 33-year-old Italian Australian Tenor. I grew up on a sugarcane and pumpkin farm in Far North Queensland. I am an opera & musical theatre performer and a classical crossover recording artist, and have performed all around the world.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
To trust your gut instinct. Even now. I am slowly learning that my gut always tells me what is right and wrong, and if only I trusted that sooner, I could have avoided so many mistakes. Although, none of which I regret!
Who inspires you and why?
My biggest inspiration is Luciano Pavarotti. He was a big guy (like me), an opera singer (like me), who tried to break the boundaries and the elitism that is attached to the opera artform by bringing opera and the classical music/sound to the masses. He was a pioneer for classical crossover music and it is exactly the reason why I have dedicated myself to this great artform to try and encourage a younger generation back into the theatre.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
My goal is to inspire young people to come back to the operatic theatre. I am trying to do this by recording popular songs in a classical style.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Greece – I am absolutely in love with the people, the food and the land.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I am usually London-based and have so many cool things that I love to show people. The best attraction I usually take people to is backstage at Her Majesty’s Theatre – the home of the brilliant original production of The Phantom of the Opera – where I spent the last 4 years.
What are you currently reading?
Currently reading: The Gift of Anger by Arun Ghandi.
What are you currently listening to?
Completely in love with the West End Original Cast recording of The Prince of Egypt.
Happiness is?
Food, friends, family and peace.
What does the future hold for you?
I am really looking forward to coming back to Australia to start a fantastic new contract at the Sydney Opera House in a big musical. I am thrilled to be coming home and spending Christmas in Australia for the first time in 13 years.
Paul has recently released his first studio album, This Is Me. For more information, visit: www.paultabone.com Paul has also been cast as as Ubaldo Piangi in the Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera – which plays at the Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House from 3 September, before heading to the State Theatre – Arts Centre Melbourne from 14 November 2021.
Image: Paul Ettore Tabone – photo by Nicholas Dawkes