Who is Ruth Burke?
At 25, I think I can say I am very much still figuring out who I am. I am an opera singer, of course, but I’m learning there is a lot more to me than that, and that’s so exciting! I love music, movement, good food and my friends and family, and the rest I’ll work out along the way.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I am currently back at university and I am hoping to become a vocal physiotherapist. I am a Pilates instructor, and for the last two years, I have been working with vocal professionals, and I absolutely love it. I love anatomy and biomechanics and how that applies to vocal function. I find it remarkable what we do physically as singers, and I want to learn more so that I can help singers and improve education about the mind-body-voice relationship.
Who inspires you and why?
The people who really inspire me are the singers that I work with here in Australia. Singers such as Ashlyn Tymms, Jessica Blunt, Samuel Dundas, Paul O’Neil and Samantha Clarke, as well as members of the WAO Chorus. Having a career and making a life as an opera singer in today’s world is not easy, and it takes a lot of courage and sacrifice. These are also people who have consistently treated their colleagues with respect and dignity, and that is far more inspiring to me than stories of past legends.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would love to raise awareness and improve education around women’s health in the performing arts industry.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Ireland is my favourite place to travel to, as all my family is there, but that’s not technically a holiday. In the last few years, I have been mostly travelling for singing commitments, which is such a privilege, but I am looking forward to exploring the world more for fun! Earlier this year, I went to Bali for the first time, and I absolutely loved it, so I would love to explore more of Asia – maybe Japan next?
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
A trip down south to Margaret River. You really get to experience Australia’s beautiful landscape and you can also enjoy great wine!
What are you currently reading?
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore. I started it a few months ago but I haven’t finished as I have spent more time reading my human biology textbook!
What are you currently listening to?
Roméo et Juliette, of course! In particular, the 1984 Michel Plasson recording with Ann Murray, singing Stéphano. I’m really enjoying getting to know the role and preparing to sing it in our upcoming production. The music is so beautiful and at times fun and light-hearted, especially in my part. Audiences are going to love it. I have also been loving the new Phoebe Bridgers album, Lost Weekend.
Happiness is?
Being around my favourite people – on and off the stage!
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, continuing to have fun singing and playing roles like Stéphano in Roméo et Juliette while I earn my physiotherapy degree and maybe take a trip to Japan!
Ruth stars as Stéphano in West Australian Opera’s production of Romèo et Juliette – which is playing at His Majesty’s Theatre, Perth, from 15 – 24 October 2026. For more information visit: www.waopera.asn.au for details.
Image: Ruth Burke (supplied)