Who is Belinda Gibson?
A ‘lifer’ in the performing arts. An ex – Stage /Tour/Production/ Operations/ Major Events / Artistic Manager and now Director at Glen Street Theatre. Also, a dog lover, and champagne connoisseur. Sometimes just a champagne consumer but trying to keep it classy and be a connoisseur whenever possible.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Nothing! I live an amazing life doing a job that brings joy. It is such a privilege to know that every day I am surrounded by people that turn up to do something they are passionate about. We come to this industry from a place of passion, intrigue and joy. We stay because despite the hard parts of living a life in arts, these emotions are fed every single day. I wouldn’t want a life lived any other way.
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone that has the courage to live their truth. It takes such incredible strength of character to know and be who you truly are or to speak up and be an agent of change. It is the people who in small and big ways undertake this that inspire me to change myself and my little corner of the universe to be hopefully something better than it was yesterday.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Just be kind. If we could just stop the hate, anger and power games and just start from a place of being kind to each other what a different world it could be.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
A place that has good food, good wine, a cozy spot to read and good company to make memories with.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Anywhere on or near Sydney Harbour! Rain or shine it is an amazing space to have the heart of a city. Having just relocated to the Northern Beaches I would probably include a stop at the Manly 16” Skiff Club. On the water and western facing so a perfect end to the day, watching the sun set over the water and probably with a champagne in hand!
What are you currently reading?
Dark Emu ( Bruce Pascoe), and feeling like I am the last person I know to be doing so.
What are you currently listening to?
Well, according to my current playlist… Lizzo, The Rubens, Lime Cordial, 80’s bangers and a dose of Bill Withers thrown in for a lovely day kickstarter.
Happiness is?
A dog running free on a beach – the ears flying back, the tail in the air, the legs that can’t quite keep up with how fast their brains think they should go, and the crazy face that is just screaming… yes, this is living!
What does the future hold for you?
Oh who knows! I never thought my life would take me to the places it has or that I would be where I am today. I will just keep going on the adventure, be open to saying yes to every opportunity and see what happens.
Belinda is the Director at Glen Street Theatre – who have just revealed their 2020 Season. For more information, visit: www.glenstreet.com.au for details.
Image: Belinda Gibson – photo by Karen Watson