On the Couch with Craig Bary

Craig Bary Arts Review On the CouchWho is Craig Bary?
Craig Bary is an independent choreographer, dancer and teacher. Originally from New Zealand, he has worked in Australia for 18 years. Craig has worked for many of Australia and New Zealand’s leading choreographers and companies such as the Australian Dance Theatre, Chunky Move, Tasdance, The Farm, Leigh Warren and Dancers, Sydney Dance Company, Shaun Parker Company, Footnote New Zealand Dance, The New Zealand Dance Company, and Douglas Wright to name a few. Craig is currently the Unit Manager of Contemporary Dance and Physical Theatre at the National Aboriginal and Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA Dance College)

What would you do differently to what you do now?
The short answer is nothing, I have really enjoyed the pathway my life has taken, the good the bad and the ugly of it all. Life is what gives you character. I have been fortunate to work in a career I love and with people who inspire me every day. I think we are so lucky to be able to make and take many opportunities and choices here in Australia. It’s not like this everywhere in the world that’s for sure, so I try and make the most of this freedom.

Who inspires you and why?
People who are not afraid to put themselves out there, to make a difference, to challenge those who try and hold you down or put you in a corner. I’m inspired by art and artists who make us think and question. I’m inspired by honesty and humbleness. My dog Psych who shows unconditional love no matter what!

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Educate… Fighting is what happens when people are unaware or ignorant to people’s differences. Lead by example and take a stand when it is necessary. Our teachers are so underappreciated.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Artists on holiday? Wouldn’t that be nice? I love the beach and the rejuvenating feeling of rainforests, both of which are on our doorstep.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Anything arts. We need the support of our community to stay alive, especially with this government at the moment stripping back a lot of the funding for the independent artists.

What are you currently reading?
Nothing at the moment, I’m making my new work In Difference with the support of FORM Dance Projects and the Sydney Mardi Gras. So that is pretty much taking up all my time. However I’m a fan of fantasy and horror novels.

What are you currently listening to?
Eden Mulholland, who happens to be the composer for my work. As I said I’m fully immersed in this show.

Happiness is?
In the heart of the person who owns it.

What does the future hold for you?
Who knows…? I’ve never lived my life with a planned out destination, I’m more interested in the journey. You never know what crazy things or opportunities may be around that corner, and if you plan too much you might just miss it. “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans.”

Craig’s latest work In Difference will be presented by FORM Dance Projects at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres: 2 – 4 March 2017. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au for details.

Image: Craig Bary