On the Couch with Annette van Roden

Annette van Roden Arts Review On the CouchWho is Annette van Roden?
A medical role play actor in the morning, a lederhosen wearing cabaret singer in the afternoon, and a theatre actor/director at night. Owner of That Couple with her partner Rickard.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
Not much, my life is full of creative and variety. I wish I’d paid more attention to my superannuation when I was young though.

Who inspires you and why?
My Auntie Corrie. She was the first woman to run a haberdashery department in The Netherlands during the war. When she came to Australia she sold fabrics and under garments door to door. She was independent, an entrepreneur, a bloody hard worker and made fabulous dutch cakes and cookies. Also Doris Day who was the springboard for my current business. My mother was in a dementia ward and even though she didn’t know my name she could sing all the words to Que Sera, Sera. My partner and I created a Doris Day show for aged care facilities and now have 18 different themed shows that we perform as That Couple.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Make everyone watch The Princess Bride. Incontheivable!

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lake Conjola – it’s not far from Sydney, has the most stunning beaches, a beautiful lake and is close to quaint towns with great cafes and op shops.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Newtown – such an eclectic array of shopping, eating, theatre and people.

What are you currently reading?
Me: Stories of My Life by Katharine Hepburn.

What are you currently listening to?
Polka music and German songs for our Oktoberfest performances.

Happiness is?
Good red wine, macaroni cheese, friends and good red wine!

What does the future hold for you?
Short term; directing Calendar Girls at the Pavilion Theatre, Castle Hill.  Long term; who knows! Performing on a cruise ship is on the bucket list.

Annette will be appearing in Marat/Sade at the New Theatre: 5 October – 5 November 2016. For more information, visit: www.newtheatre.org.au for details.

Image: Annette van Roden