Who is Benjamin Nichol?
An actor, the theatre director of the Ringwood sector for the Fresh Theatre for Social Change, co-creator of the hot new theatre show BREAD CRUMBS, and proud boy of the burbs.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
One of the things I joke about never forgiving Mum for is letting me quit gymnastics as a child. I was very good but hated it furiously. If I could be travelling the world doing something physical or athletic, I would be a very happy man.
Who inspires you and why?
My creative partner and close friend Ruby Johnston. She thinks with a truly admirable level of compassion in her perspective of the world and lives with integrity underpinning all her actions. She is a lady who shows no hesitation when it comes to giving me a slap across the wrist for making a poor life choice. She is also a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d create progressive youth education projects like the Respectful Relationship or Safe Schools Programs. These things are good things.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Wilson’s Prom. The park has some of the best beaches and hiking sites in the world, not to mention that camping there is responsible for some of my fondest childhood memories.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Eltham Laughing Waters is a hot choice for summer. Or else the Night Cat. Great for live music. Even better for a boogie.
What are you currently reading?
Always the paper. If I have time to sit and read the newspaper in the morning before work it has been a good day. I have become my Dad.
What are you currently listening to?
Sufjan Stevens. Chance the Rapper. Frank Ocean. Whitney Houston. Loose Moose.
Happiness is?
A tall glass of red wine.
What does the future hold for you?
My work BREAD CRUMBS opens November 21. Researching the work and meeting with the generous people who have offered us their insights has been a shocking but incredibly rewarding process. I cannot wait to share with the community what we have created. I’m also flying off to Morocco next year to trek through the Atlas Mountains and have a crack at rock climbing. I am bloody stoked.
Presented as part of the 2017 Poppy Seed Theatre Festival, BREAD CRUMBS plays in the Stables at the Meat Market from 21 November. For more information, visit: www.poppyseedfestival.com for details.
Image: Benjamin Nichol (supplied)