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By Natasha Rubinfeld After blowing our minds and stealing our hearts as the gorgeous drag-queen Angel in the Melbourne production of RENT, Opell Ross is now gracing the music scene with his first single release. The “under 30 but over 20” year-old, has unleashed his talent in all fields of entertainment. He made his debut in Wogarama in 1993, before becoming dance captain of Penny Arcade in ’94 and ’95. He has also modelled for Calvin Klein and Schwarzkopf, danced with Deni Hines, choreographed fashion shows, appeared in music videos as well as Neighbours and RAW FM. Is there anything this boy can’t do?? Yet Opell’s achievements aren’t based merely on his talent. Opell possesses an inner strength and radiant inspiration. The depth and understanding of life which Opell emulates through his music strongly illuminates and motivates the soul. The R&B style lyrics of ‘Our Place’, his debut single, are just that. “I know a place where we can fly across the sky like eagles. I know a place to spread our wings. I know a place where we can cry away the night with laughter. I know a place where angels sing.” So where did the inspiration for these lyrics come from? “One day I was having a bad day when I thought nothing was going right and things were getting me down, and all I wanted was somewhere else that I could go so things would be easier. I guess it’s about keeping faith in yourself and your dreams.” Opell’s music possesses the funk of Madonna, the sexiness of Janet Jackson and the soul of Oleta Adams. “This song is very laid back and smooth… something you can hear on the radio but also play at home to make yourself happy. It’s a positive energy song.” Opell was asked to join MTV in Singapore, but was busy working on the production of Rent and his new single. “Rent has made a huge impact on my life, not just my music…Basically Rent has given me more confidence to keep pursuing my solo recording career. It has also enabled me to develop my voice even further. My goals are still the same.” So what are Opell’s goals? After establishing his solo career, Ross hopes to appear in a movie and another musical. “I just have to stay focussed. I keep myself open to all possibilities and deal with the challenges as they come whether they be in the form of a T.V role, or performing at the MTV awards!” Ross manages to deal with challenges and overcome any hurdles with the same positive attitudes. Donning fishnet stockings and high-(and I stress the word high)-heeled-shoes on stage as Angel Dumott Schunard in Rent, may seem difficult for some, yet Ross pulled it off with such grace and charisma that he was often mistaken for a professional drag-queen. (Yet Ross emphasises that this was his first cross dressing role!) “I actually had second thoughts about accepting the role because the whole drag element really frightened me…So I find this character really challenging because Angel is so uplifting and energetic…It’s been such a positive experience, which makes me realise that what I am doing is worthwhile if I can open people’s minds.” This selfless aim epitomises Opell. While I’m sure the stardom and fame isn’t exactly a turn off, the main element behind Ross’ career is the positive message which he can send out through his music. “Be positive and believe. Don’t give up the fight…I truly believe in this message. It keeps me going each day. Sometimes I feel like it’s all not worth it and want to give up. So if I can share my own experiences about this then I hope I will encourage others to believe in themselves too.” Check out all good music stores soon for Opell’s debut single ‘Our Place’, and hopefully an upcoming album. “Never be afraid to fly.” |
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