I had a gap of three months between opera projects... but you have to live and spend

Opera in Ireland hit a high note recently with the formation of a new national company. The Irish National Opera will bring many of our world-class singers back home to perform in some of the most famous as well as contemporary works. The Marriage Of Figaro, its first major large-scale production, opened in Wexford on Friday and arrives in Dublin this week. Soprano AOIFE MISKELLY sings the role of Cherubino and here gives us a little insight into the financial life of an opera artist.

Have you ever been ripped off?

I was once robbed at Bologna’s main train station. I think our pale Irish skin emblazoned the word ‘tourist’ on our foreheads but luckily they didn’t get away with very much!

How much cash have you got on you?

About €200.

Do you have a pension?

I have a private pension. I pay in according to the limit for tax relief (which rises depending on age).

Irish opera singers have been extraordinarily successful abroad. But was there a lack of support at home (before the Irish National Opera)?

There was a lack of long-term infrastructure here in comparison to other countries. We are a nation rich in artistic value and so the new company can offer opportunities to the wealth of talent coming from this island.

How do you cope with the challenge of earning income in the arts?

It is important to remember that your earnings are exactly that – and not all savings! Last year I had a gap of about three and a half months between projects, something I had not previously experienced. I felt guilty spending any money at all during the time I wasn’t actively earning. My husband (who also works in the profession as a director) reminded me that it’s okay to spend money you earn on living, as that’s exactly what it’s for!

What does the new opera company mean to artists such as yourself?

As freelance artists, we spend a lot of our time on the road, all around the world working on various stages, which has its perks. But it’s also a total luxury to come home to where everything is familiar, you speak the language, and a pot of your mum’s stew is within easy reach!

Best financial decision?

To get a financial adviser – someone in the know about numbers, as I have little interest!

One little luxury you’d like to treat yourself to?

A honeymoon! We got married just after Christmas and haven’t yet booked anything.

What was your most expensive purchase?

Our flat in Catford in London, which we moved into just before Christmas last year.

Name three things you’d do if you were a government minister tomorrow?

One, properly enforce the percentage cap on how much landlords can increase rents by (as they do in Germany, for example) to help solve the homeless crisis. Two, provide a subsidy for children to learn music (either through singing or instrumental) so that not just the well-off have access to top level instruction. Three, stop Brexit!

The Marriage Of Figaro runs at the Gaiety Theatre from this Tuesday to Saturday, April 21. See irishnationalopera.ie