Who is Jacob Machin?
I am a Melbourne-based actor, who spends a vast majority of my time either mucking around on various instruments, eating far more than a single human being ever should or reading literally anything that is within arm’s reach. It’s a tough life.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Consume more. Not food. Information. I have a thirst for knowledge- whether it be from Dr Karl, Stephen Fry, a book, a film, or my father’s amazing retentive brain. I eat all that interesting trivia up. Just like a tasty snack for my brain. I could actually go for a snack. MnMs. Or Skittles! Or an unhealthy combination of the two. I’m hungry.
Who inspires you and why?
British actors. Oldman, Day-Lewis, Cumberbatch, McAvoy, Hopkins. They have a magnificent theatricality that, through some mysterious alchemy, shines through their eyes. They lace every role with compassion. They listen, they are generous and they are humble. To me they are collectively the epitome of great acting.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Surely there’s a way to harness the power generated by our nimble little thumbs while texting? A glove of some sort? Talk about renewable energy. I know people who could power entire cities that way. Also mandatory First-Aid classes in secondary school. It can’t hurt. See what I did there?
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Holiday? What on earth is a holiday? A sandwich? Some sort of sandwich? Do you have any sandwiches? I’m still hungry.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
Without a doubt, the Melbourne theatre scene. We have so many humble venues in Melbourne bursting with local talent. 45 Downstairs, Red Stitch, La Mama, Chapel off Chapel, to name a few. Next time you have a friend from out of town, pick a venue out of a hat and go see whatever is playing. You’ll have a ball.
What are you currently reading?
Intent to Live by Larry Moss. If you’re an actor, definitely have a read. No spoilers.
What are you currently listening to?
Honestly? My housemate making popcorn. Wait. He’s cursing. I think he burnt it. Yeah. . . I’m listening to the smoke detector. I’ll be right back. . .
Happiness is?
An anagram of ‘spin phase.’ Which means your washing is almost done. Which means you’re one drying session away from clean underwear. Which would make anyone happy.
What does the future hold for you?
Well, there’s this brilliant play I’m in at 45 Downstairs called Young and Jackson. Written by Don Reid and directed by Wayne Harrison, it follows the story of a couple of young Aussie sailors in 1945 as they train and prepare for their orders. Well. By ‘train,’ I mean head out in Melbourne, POSSIBLY cause a bit of trouble, POSSIBLY meet a nice young lady and POSSIBLY learn more about themselves than they ever knew before. Possibly. You’ll have to come along and see for yourself!
Young and Jackson is currently playing at fortyfivedownstairs until 22 March. For more information, visit: www.fortyfivedownstairs.com.au for details.
Image: Jacob Machin