I have a Masters in Opera from conservatoire and have been performing in the UAE and Europe for 5 years but I really want to expand my audience in Dubai. Highlights include Dubai opera, the Steinway studio and Emirates Palace. I have found that not many people know much about opera or classical music outside of the scene, usually because they feel there are barriers to understanding it. I want to break down some of those barriers and introduce a new audience to this incredible art form. I want to make it appealing and understandable by hosting small events that are accessible to a new audience. I am performing a large scale opera this summer in Germany and I want to use that opportunity to create a dialogue between European and Emirati music in this vibrant part of the world. I also would love to work with other creatives to host events that combine different skills. For example, hosting an event with a supper club that includes music and poetry or collaborating with dancers and visual artists to make really interesting events that brings my music to life, introducing it to a new audience and making incredible art. Living in Dubai, I have really enjoyed meeting people from all over the world with different talents and interests and would love to be exposed to more of this.

I would like to become a member of 1833 because I would love to connect with like-minded people in Dubai who want to foster unity, partnership and creativity. I would love to learn more about other peoples’ skills and talents and hopefully collaborate with them on meaningful and purposeful projects. I have been fortunate to meet some really interesting and talented people in Dubai and would love to meet more people regularly and explore artistic areas that I otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to. I would use my membership to feel part of a community that shares ideas and experiences, opening my eyes to all different kinds of creative pursuits. If possible, I would love to collaborate with other creatives and learn more about their craft. I believe I could add to the community because I am a big believer in authenticity and communication, both as a performer and in life. This seems like a big part of 1833 so I hope I would be a suitable addition. I also think I might be able to bring a different perspective as an opera singer. I know of a few in the UAE but there aren’t many of us and I believe my knowledge in this arena might offer some variety to the community. I think my experience working in this unique part of the music industry in Europe and the UAE could add a different and interesting perspective. I am an enthusiastic person and am always keen to have new experiences so I hope that too would be a positive impact in the 1833 community. I would love the opportunity to be part of this group and have been looking for this kind of community since I arrived.

As a classically trained artist my main interest is music ranging from opera (which is my career) to vinyl DJ nights, jazz and folk music. I am involved in three different groups in Dubai and am working with a new collective, performance in practice at Bayt Al Mamzar. To expand my creative pursuits I took some art history classes and I regularly go to exhibitions, museums and gallery openings, especially if there is a chance to meet the artist. In my free time I’m involved in lots of music groups but like to explore other creative pursuits to get me out of my comfort zone. This is mainly going to design shows, independent cinema and I’m learning Italian to broaden my horizons. I also go to lots of supper clubs in Dubai, Haus of Vo and Girl and the Goose being my favourite so far. Recently I have started collaborate with a pianist, Stan Fedyuk, and am cultivating a programme to perform in a ‘salon’ style event.