CENTRAL Victorian performer Chooka Parker is making his dreams come true.
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The self-taught pianist from Red Lion last night performed at the Sydney Opera House after smashing the people’s choice charts in the 2012 Musicoz Awards.
Chooka, 18, said he had always dreamt of performing at the Sydney Opera House and thanked the public for voting and making the dream a reality.
“It’s quite incredible how much support I’ve had from around the world,” he said.
“So I’d like to say a big thanks to all my fans.”
Chooka shot to fame after appearing on variety program Australia’s Got Talent last year.
He didn’t watch television, surf the internet or own a mobile phone and was dubbed the “surprise packet” of the competition.
When he was 11 he decided he wanted to be a chicken farmer, which earned him his distinctive nickname.
He has changed his name from Ethan to Chooka by deed poll and feels most comfortable decked out in a leather jacket, Akubra and work boots.
The young star dreams of buying a houseboat, living on the Murray River and making music.
Chooka makes up most of his compositions on the spot.
“I can’t believe I’ll be playing at the Sydney Opera House,” he said yesterday.
“I might do a bit of improvisation, I’m not sure yet.
‘‘I’m very excited.
‘‘Performing there is something I’ve always wanted to do.”
Chooka taught himself to play piano, inspired by a Mozart CD he found, and said his stint in the national spotlight had transformed his life.
Since appearing on Australia’s Got Talent, Chooka has played gigs across the country.
“I’ve had plans, playing at the Sydney Opera House was part of it, and there’s a couple of other things I’m hoping to do,” he said.
“I want to work with cartoons in movies with music and voice acting.”