I was born in Adelaide but grew up in regional Victoria and Melbourne.

My parents were both academics, historians, and they were heavily invested in culture and cultural activities. They both loved music, particularly classical music, and my father loved opera. They would take me to concerts as a child, primarily Musica Viva but also other visiting musical ensembles and some opera and ballet. 

I did a brief stint in the UK with my mother when I was very young, and she used to take me to Sadler’s Wells in London to see the ballet and classical concerts. I think the absolute highlight – and I still remember it today – was seeing Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyn perform Romeo and Juliet. We sat in the front row, as we didn’t have a lot of money, and I still remember the sound of the dancers’ breath, the ballet shoes hitting the floor, and seeing sweat fall.

Rachel Kent

Rachel Kent. Photo © Anna Kucera.

I’ve always loved all things creative – visual and performing arts, music and dance. Art has always...