On the Couch with Dean Arcuri

Dean Arcuri Arts Review On the CouchWho is Dean Arcuri?
We are diving straight into the deep questions aren’t we. If only I knew for sure haha! Who am I? A passionate, procrastinating, photographing, performing poof. I love to sing, dance and don’t know how to say no, I haven’t properly cleaned my apartment in over a year…

What would you do differently to what you do now?
Besides learning how to change the tyre of a car? I’d teach myself how to take personal risks. Professional ones aren’t easy but there’s a confidence that fortifies within you over time, but I never quite figured out how to mirror that in my personal life. Till then I’ll just keep dancing and smiling!

Who inspires you and why?
Anyone who takes a risk whether it be starting a food truck or having the guts to step up and do public speaking when you’re terrified. It might sound silly but we don’t give ourselves enough credit when we go for something, and every time someone does it inspires me to be bold.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Raise a family, I should start that soon. That’s the best way to remember that your life is about more than yourself and to work towards the impact we all have. I also want to do more to help the homeless than just give change or buy them bottles of water when I can.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
I lead such a busy life here at home that when I need a break I look for solitude. Over the past couple of years, I’ve been around Europe and America but I never felt like I got a really relaxing break until I went for a drive and spent a weekend in Daylesford. It’s amazing how much the scenic views and country air can make 2 days feel like a month. That makes me want to explore more of what Australia has to offer.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I like to take them on a Melbourne Dumplingfest! Living in Melbourne I probably don’t appreciate the sites that others would enjoy but there’s nothing like taking people out for a feast of fried dumplings with soy and chili!

What are you currently reading?
Twitter – it’s probably the most ridiculous thing to look at and read, but it’s entertaining and you see some of the toxic highs and ridiculously insecure lows people go through on social media, and how to avoid them.

What are you currently listening to?
Podcasts, specifically the Gilmore Guys. I’ve been listening to two men rewatch the whole series of the Gilmore Girls and then the recent revival, it’s been hilariously ridiculous and they are about to start on the series Bunheads which never got a full season and had some great dance scenes so I can’t wait to hear what that is like.

Happiness is?
Listening to any and all acoustic music.

What does the future hold for you?
Well, there’s a lot of Dean in 2017; I’m certainly starting the year off with one hell of a summer season. I’ve joined the family at JOY 94.9 and co-host Wednesday Drive with Michael Dalton. As it’s my 10th year producing work for the Midsumma Festival, I’m celebrating with a DEANniversary including 7 self produced events, from a queer cabaret This Show is Gay at Speakeasy HQ, geeky dance party SHAZAM and a Big Queer Brunch filled with performers before Pride March.

My queerer alter ego Frock Hudson will be all around Daylesford and performing at the Perfect Drop for ChillOut, and I’m diving into something new for Melbourne International Comedy Festival – instead of comedy cabaret my show will be full stand up. You never stop growing as a performer and I’ll keep pushing boundaries and having a hell of a lot of fun doing it!

For more information, visit: www.deanarcuri.com for details.

Image: Dean Arcuri (supplied)