Who is Amity Dry?
I’m a singer, writer, composer, mother, overly enthusiastic story-teller, eternal optimistic and lover of connecting with people and making art.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
The things I’d do differently probably shouldn’t be listed in a promo interview! But essentially I’m a believer that everything happens for a reason and your ‘mistakes’ and failures teach you who you are and lead you to where you’re supposed to be. So my simple answer is, nothing.
Who inspires you and why?
My 8 year-old daughter, because she knows exactly who she is and lives her life with joyful enthusiasm! But aside from my own offspring right now Jacinda Ardern is a huge inspiration. She is such a wonderful example that you can be a strong leader and make an impact in the world while still being kind and compassionate and she’s an amazing role model for working mothers and women in general.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think the shows and songs I write can and do make a difference in a small way to people’s lives and I’m really proud of that. Art is such a powerful way to connect with and inspire people and reminds us that our feelings and experiences are universal.
I still get messages about my song The Lighthouse from people who are grieving a loved one and playing it makes them feel more connected to them and to know that something I wrote 20 years ago is still moving people is really special. And in a bigger sense I have been an ambassador for a number of charities over the years than work with disadvantaged families and I try to always give back to the community. And obviously if I had a magic wand to wave I would bring peace to the world and fix the environment while I was at it!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Too many to pick one! I love NYC and had an amazing holiday in Paros in the Greek Islands a year ago and can’t wait to go back there. And I recently went to Prague and that was absolutely stunning. I love to travel and want to see more of Europe in the coming years.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Hopefully they come to Adelaide during Mad March so I can take them to the Adelaide Fringe because it’s my favourite time to be in Adelaide. The whole city comes alive. If not, I would take them to McLaren Vale for a fabulous lunch and then end the day watching the sunset over Port Willunga Beach. Adelaide is so spoilt with our wineries and beaches.
What are you currently reading?
I don’t have as much time as I would like to read – so the last book I read was probably a Jodi Picoult or Liane Moriarty book. If I do have time I tend to go to the authors I know I’ll enjoy them, which is a bit lazy of me! I need to get back into reading more because I love it, but life has been too busy writing lately.
What are you currently listening to?
I saw a few new musicals on the West End recently so am listening to their soundtracks. I also discovered Leon Bridges and I love his Coming Home album. It sounds like an old soul record. I listen to everything from musical theatre to pop, soul, folk and country. And I love a bit of 90s RnB!
Happiness is?
Writing a new song, hitting a great note, singing in harmony with a group, connecting to an audience, a day off spent in the sunshine with my kids, a good meal with someone who makes me laugh, a holiday in the Greek Islands, a beach sunset, sleeping in.
What does the future hold for you?
Touring Fortified to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane then going back to London for the final workshop of The (M)other Life in June, which hopefully debuts on the West End next year! And then after that, writing more shows. But I guess I’ll have to wait and see where life takes me to know what they’ll be about!
Amity presents Fortified at Chapel Off Chapel for a limited season from 1 May 2019. For more information, visit: www.chapeloffchapel.com.au for details.
Image: Amity Dry (supplied)