On the Couch with Jack Riley

Jack Riley Arts Review On the CouchWho is Jack Riley?
Jack Riley is a contemporary dancer and aspiring choreographer, originally from Canberra and now lives wherever the hell he unpacks his backpack, I have bounced around so much this year I’ve lost sense of up, down and side to side (probably not a good thing if you are a dancer). He loves to move, kick, punch and throw anything around for hours on end, cracking jokes, refining his art and the discotheque are at the top of his mind constantly. He is made up from his streams of training, martial arts, breakdance, and modern dance. He hopes to one day have the ability to fly. Daily attempts are made.

What would you do di?erently to what you do now?
I had to decide if I wanted to take Judo professionally or dancing professionally. My Judo coach wanted to train me for the next Olympics, I thought I was going to take this offer until I broke my leg during a training period for Judo. I ended up finding myself more and more involved in dancing very naturally and decided to train for dance.

Who inspires you and why?
Long answer, I have been lucky enough to come in contact with many amazing teachers throughout my life in dance and other activities I did when growing up. These figures in my life have guided and help shape the person I am today and I am very grateful for their wisdom and encouragement. Short answer – Bruce Lee.

What would you do to make a di?erence in the world?
Educate myself about the world around me and continue to work on myself as a human being. Realise my limitations and push these boundaries and encourage others to do the same.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Berlin, because, well, Berlin…

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Take them to my favourite disco spot, New Guernica in the city.

What are you currently reading?
I have not read anything for the past couple of months, however I have my eyes on the new Harry Potter book – A History of Magic.

What are you currently listening to?
I am currently going through a period where I have no idea what to listen to, I can’t seem to find new music, however I have been listening to 90’s hip hop – mostly Mobb Deep and Biggie Smalls.

Happiness is?
Engaging with the world around you. Realising that everything is a process and a learning point whether you think it is or not. To be fluid and adaptable and rolling with the punches of life. “Free your mind, be like water” – Bruce Lee.

What does the future hold for you?
Only thing for certain – Taxes and Death.

Jack can be seen in James Batchelor’s REDSHIFT – presented as part of Chunky Move’s Next Move program: 23 November – 2 December. For more information, visit: www.chunkymove.com.au for details.

Image: Jack Riley (supplied)