Snapshot: Christina Trnik
Family: My husband Michael, and son Johnny, 8.
How did you meet your husband? We met while performing La Boheme, playing Marcello and Musetta together.
How do you pronounce your last name? “Tri-nick.”
Nickname: Growing up they called me Nina. My parents still call me that.
How long have you lived in Newtown? We moved here in 2019, when my son was about 1½, and thankfully before the pandemic. We have a nice yard he was able to play in a lot during that.
What do you do for work? I am self-employed. I am a professional singer, a soprano, and I am a voice teacher.
My most important job is being Mommy to my amazing son Johnny.
Are you an active member of any clubs, organizations, and/or communities of faith? We worship at St Rose. I’ll be leading the music for Vacation Bible School this year, which I’m really excited for. My son is going to be a camper, and he’s been helping me pick what songs we’re going to do and practice our songs at home. In the fall I’ll also be teaching his Faith Formation class. I’m also involved at Middle Gate School, volunteering there a lot for my son, for different events, which I enjoy.
What did you want to be when you grew up? I always was naturally good at singing and it was always what I’ve loved to do, so it was an easy choice to be a singer. I was a Catholic Cantor since age 9 and have been singing professionally since age 13 when I was in a Connecticut tour of a musical as a lead. I went to Westminster Choir College to become a singer, and credit that for giving me the technical knowledge to start my own vocal studio and gain my dream opera role. I believe God gave me my singing voice as a gift.
What was the most recent movie you saw in the theater? Toy Story 5. It was very sentimental and very nostalgic, especially as a 90s kid to go with my son. It was great.
Favorite actors? Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler.
What is your favorite movie genre? Romantic comedy.
Favorite music genre? I was raised with my dad on oldies like Motown and 50s-60s music, the Beatles, and The Temptations. I also enjoy classical, like on WMNR. It’s very calming and I’ll listen to it on the way to school with my son. I feel like it makes him calm before school starts. I love Broadway musicals too.
What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? My dad used to tell me, before I would go on an audition, “Don’t forget who you are. You’re Cristina DiMuro.” My mom also calls her advice “SHH.” Her wish was always for me to be Safe, Happy & Healthy.
What is your favorite food? I love traditional Italian food, which is what I grew up on.
What is your favorite thing about Newtown? We love Newtown because it’s such a great place for kids. Even when my son was in preschool and younger, we took him to EverWonder, NYA, and Toddler Time, and the parks. Now it’s the community center with the pool. Parks & Rec always has a lot of great activities. We also love Main Street, especially on Halloween and the Labor Day Parade.
Do you have a personal credo? Never give up because life can be hard. Be strong and trust in God even when you think He’s quiet. Always put yourself out there and be flexible. Love always.
