Chiara Castania is an all-round performing artist, originally from the small northern Italian town of Iseo. She took up ballet at five years old under her mothers’ wishes; a former ballerina.
Chiara moved to London to further progress her training as it offered her a more extensive selection of education. After winning scholarships at both A.L.R.A. in London and Bodyworks Dance Studios in Cambridge, she succeeded in acquiring a succession of leading roles with a variety of major cruise companies; P&O ‘Oriana’ and Cunard ‘QE2’ were two famous ships she worked on. Chiara is now a solo headliner on cruise ships and has been performing her acts on cruise lines such as Celebrity, Carnival, NCL and Fred Olsen.
Chiara also had the experience of being part of two well-established girl groups under professional management; one of which had songs produced by the world-renowned ‘Boney M’. She continued her music career by developing her own producing and writing skills in conjunction with various London producers, and worked on two albums.
Chiara is currently pursuing a musical theatre path. Never afraid of trying something new or taking on a challenge, her motto faithfully stands as “variety is the spice of life”.
Have always wanted to be on stage?
Yes, I started twirling around from the age of one! I did have ideas of maybe being an air hostess or hairdresser, but that didn’t last long! I really decided, though, when I was seven or eight, when my Nan – who was a singer – introduced me to all the old musical films. Gene Kelly, Cyd Charisse, Debbie Reynolds… I was hooked!
Where did you train and what was it like?
I first trained at a very strict Italian ballet school in Italy with a Russian who had a big wooden stick and terrified me! I later started at a weekend dance and singing school from the age of 11 and joined the choir.
I then applied to study at performing arts schools and trained at ALRA (Academy of Live and Recorded Arts) in London, and Bodyworks Dance Studios in Cambridge which was great training! I was blessed in being awarded scholarships for all my training as I wouldn’t have been able to afford it otherwise.
I still take classes at Pineapple Studios as I love it still and like keeping up my technique, and I sometimes take private singing classes too.
What was your first job? What was it like?
My first ‘job’ was in a girl group called Sirens, directed and produced by Boney M, the famous 70s group! It was an interesting experience! I went on to be in another girl group and appeared on television in Celebrity Soccer, playing football with The Darkness, Take That, CBBC presenters, Cheryl Cole and Girls Aloud, Liberty X… again, another interesting experience!
My first real job was my first cruise contract with Sea Cruises… hard work, but great first job. I got into a bit of trouble though because I was so flamboyant and crazy! I got a warning for wearing too much glitter, feather boas and sitting on bar stools sipping cocktails with the officers! Hilarious. This job taught me many skills for the industry though and prepared me for years to come. I worked out very quickly that the cruising life really suited me, and that soon I would become addicted to the lifestyle.
What is a day in the life of Chiara like?
My days can be busy, stressful and frantic at times. I’m not a morning person and frequently need very strong espresso coffee! I like to keep busy so rehearsals are a must if I’m on a contract. I also like time to have a read, go to the gym and eat at some point – I love my food! My daily meditation is really important too as it chills me out a little…
What is it like working away on a cruise ship?
I love working away and traveling – I’m completely addicted to the excitement and diversity as I get restless easily… I need variety or I get bored. I miss home, friends and my man the most though… it is incredibly hard being in a long-distance relationship and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone!
What’s the best thing about performing on a cruise ship?
The best thing about performing is seeing people’s smiling faces, or hearing that I’ve made someone’s holiday. I love the escapism if offers, reinventing yourself a hundred times over and the joy I get from singing and dancing. If I had a choice I would have been more of a dancer though, as that’s my first love! I’ve been part of two dance companies and it’s been one of my greatest satisfactions and accomplishments in my life. I have flat feet, bent knees, an arched back (that gives me back pain every day) and not the greatest classical lines… yet I can dance! I like to challenge my limitations and am as stubborn as hell… you can achieve so much more than you think!
What would you put your success down to?
My success is just hard work and perseverance… believing in myself and going for my dreams. I have so many more dreams, just keep reaching and working hard, to maintain and improve on what you have. I am also spiritual, so being thankful means you will receive much more back… I pray and I stay positive.
Do you have a life mantra?
Not a life mantra, but I love ‘Variety is the spice of life’!
What is your advice to an aspiring performer?
Don’t allow anyone to squash your dreams, only you can decide if it’s possible. Stay positive, have faith in yourself and do your research!