Who is Bobbie-Jean Henning?
A colourful singing, acting, cake-baking human person who currently lives in Sydney with some plants that she cannot seem to keep alive.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I don’t think I’d really do anything differently. I’m generally trying to do my best with the time and resources I have. Maybe I’d eat a few less hot chips though.
Who inspires you and why?
Singer/actress Cynthia Erivo is an absolute powerhouse. I love the work of Australian actress and playwright Kate Mulvany, and Rachel Bloom of Crazy-Ex Girlfriend. They’re all passionate, talented women who know what they’re about and show it.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
This year I’ve been learning ways to reduce the negative impact I have on the planet. Things like being conscious of where my food comes from and reducing the amount of plastic waste I create. However, if we’re talking big-scale superpower, I’d send out some rays to make people really understand each other. I think empathy and truly listening would solve a lot of our problems.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’m all about a little cottage in the woods.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I recently went on the Sydney Observatory Night Tour and I’m obsessed. It was such an engaging tour and fascinating hearing about space and what a tiny spec our little planet really is.
What are you currently reading?
I’d love to say something cultured and educated but really all I’ve been reading lately are my emails and the script for the play I’m rehearsing. There’s a shameful pile of unread books in my bedroom which hopefully I’ll start working through that in the new year.
What are you currently listening to?
I love the podcast Being Honest With My Ex. It’s a pair who used to be engaged talking about their relationship, each other and all sorts of other things. They’re both really interesting people and I love hearing them look back at their past selves.
Happiness is?
Sitting on a sunny balcony with nowhere else to be and no other responsibilities.
What does the future hold for you?
Ah if only I knew! Hopefully some more travel, theatre making and a bit of personal growth thrown in for good measure.
Bobbie-Jean can be seen in a fresh and frightening new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic ghost story, A Christmas Carol at the Kings Cross Theatre from 12 December 2017. For more information, visit: www.kingsxtheatre.com or www.liesliesandpropaganda.com for details.
Image: Bobbie-Jean Henning – photo by Sally Flegg