Elizabeth Marvelly knew from a very young age that she wanted to perform.

Now the 18-year-old is living her dream, inspired by everyone from operatic greats through to All Black heroes.

The talented “popera” singer was hand-picked and moulded by several of New Zealand's most celebrated performers including the man who masterminded the early careers of her international contemporaries Hayley Westenra and Yulia Townsend.

Elizabeth was virtually born into the business, her parents Brett and Vlasta Marvelly innkeepers at Rotorua’s majestic Princes Gate Hotel – a historic boutique hotel built in 1897 and frequented by a who’s who of personalities in their 21 years of ownership. Having started playing piano at age four, Elizabeth has fond memories of jazz great Dr Jazz (Dr Neil McKenzie) staying at the hotel and she sitting on his knee for a jam session on the grand piano.

Over the years, a stream of musicians, entertainers and personalities have made their way to the hotel and have been a valuable resource on which this young performer has been able to grow. Rock bands, musical theatre icons and rugby hero Jonah Lomu have given her inspiration to follow her dreams. She has sung for the Prime Minister and Governor General.

Throughout her young life, Elizabeth has always strove to put her best foot forward in all endeavours.

It was a dedicated girl who at thirteen drove with her father three hours from Rotorua to Auckland every Sunday for singing lessons. This kind of dedication has become a huge part of Elizabeth’s life and has allowed her to follow her dreams of becoming a professional singer to the highest level.