On the Couch with George Bray

George Bray AAR On the CouchWho is George Bray?
Who is George Bray? Some say he’s a hero, some say the saviour of these modern times. But most people just call him an idiot! I’m a straight forward, brutally honest fool from the North East of England, the only thing I love more than talking is having a beer with mates or singing, or both!

What would you do differently to what you do now? 
If I wasn’t a performer I would want to be a paramedic. I love high pressure situations, and think that people who work in the health services are utter heroes.

Who inspires you and why?
My parents inspire me constantly. Their endless support and investment in encouraging me to succeed in my career is boundless. They laid the foundations for me to be as ambitious and carefree as I wanted and I’ll be eternally grateful.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would make a performing company that specifically would tour areas of the world that don’t get access to the arts, providing workshops, entertainment and escapism for anyone, regardless of circumstance.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Heron Island! One of my favourite childhood memories was a family holiday there and it completely took my breath away.

What are you looking forward to seeing/doing in Australia, and why?
The show!! The Choir of Man is pretty much always the best part of my day. Free beer, singing, instruments to play and hundreds of other people to enjoy it with, what more could you want? Oh, and also the coffee in Melbourne haha!

What are you currently reading?
The email from my tour manager asking me to write all of this!

What are you currently listening to?
Allen Stone, Tash Sultana and Vulfpeck are always high up on my recently played list. And of course the Choir of Man CD!

Happiness is?
Family. Friends. Beer gardens.

What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully more opportunities to laugh and enjoy the people around me. I feel so lucky to get to travel and work with an incredible group of people and I have an unbelievable support structure back home. Keep the good times coming, and keep smiling. That’s my only plan!

George stars in the international hit, The Choir of Man – which plays Arts Centre Melbourne from 28 December 2019, before heading to Perth’s Fringe World from 17 January and Gluttony – Adelaide Fringe from 14 February 2020. For more information, visit: www.choirofman.com for details.

Image: George Bray (supplied)