Kia Orana my name is Ridge Ponini and I am proud born and bred son from the Cook Islands, Rarotonga. 

I am the first Opera singer from the Cook Islands pursing in an international career in opera. Staying true to my values of Faith, Family, Culture and Community which have kept me grounded in this journey. 

I will be further developing my training at the prestigious National opera studio young artist program in London, as I work towards my goal of becoming an international opera artist.

Through my journey, I hope this brings inspiration to the next generation of Pacific opera singers to proudly embrace  their culture and identity, to dream boldly  and see themselves represented on an international stage.