Who is Rhonda Burchmore?
Rhonda Burchmore is a mother of a glorious daughter, the wife of a doctor, lover and owner of standard poodles, a generally fun type of gal who just happens to sing, act, and dances a bit.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Go to the gym more often, drink a bit less French champagne (it’s my weakness).
Who inspires you and why?
All intelligent gifted people – from Shirley Bassey, Cher, Tina Turner, Beyoncé and other strong powerful women – to incredible artists; Dali, Picasso – to fabulous scientists.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Perhaps ummm – ‘shirtfront’ Tony Abbott wearing my Jimmy Choos!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Positano on the Amalfi Coast in Italy – magnificently civilised with beautiful food, wine people and outrageous roads along the cliff face of the ocean.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
Shopping up Collins Street, a smart walk around the city ending up with the food section of Victoria Markets.
What are you currently reading?
There was a little girl – Brooke Shields’ autobiography – (I just happen to be a friend of the lovely Brooke, which makes the reading all the more special!).
What are you currently listening to?
Sam Smith
Happiness is?
A long walk along a deserted pristine beach with my family and dogs.
What does the future hold for you?
Many exciting new things – from new shows to recording to film – stay tuned!
With a smile that could light up the Sydney Opera house and a voice that’s as big, bold and colourful as Uluru, Rhonda Burchmore has endeared herself to the hearts of all Australians. Few Australian entertainers have shared her status and immense popularity amongst her peers, who admire Rhonda for her big personality, big heart and enormous capacity to give back to the industry that has shaped her career.
After 25 years in the business, this vivacious, flame-haired beauty continues to turn heads wherever she goes and draw thunderous applause wherever she performs. She has forged a lengthy career in one of the toughest and most unforgiving industries, show business, yet as critics attest, she just keeps going from strength to strength.
A legend of the Australian stage, Rhonda started performing at two years old and became internationally known for her role as Kate in the 1982 film, The Pirate Movie. She gave her first major Australian theatre performance in the 1988 production of Sugar Babies.
Rhonda has gone onto appear in Hot Shoe Shuffle, Annie Get Your Gun, Guys & Dolls, Mamma Mia, Urinetown the Musical, Little Orphan Trashley, Up Close & Personal, and recently La Cage aux Folles, just to name a few.
Rhonda was nominated for a 2002 Mo Award for Female Musical Theatre Performer of The Year for her role as Tanya in the ABBA musical production, Mamma Mia, along with another nomination of Female Vocal Variety Performer of The Year. In 2014, Rhonda was awarded a medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the performing arts and to the community, as well as the Cabaret Icon Award at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.
Rhonda will be appearing in her new show, Vinyl Viagra at Arts Centre Melbourne: 6 – 7 February. For more information, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Rhonda Burchmore