Who is Jeremy Hopkins?
I’m a drummer, vocalist, composer, voice-over artist, actor, tap dancer, plane enthusiast, neurodiversity advocate, and father to Will (2 legs) and Bruce (4 legs). Just writing that was exhausting!
What would you do differently to what you do now?
If I had my time again, I would have applied for a job at Circus Oz sooner – the one gig in town where I get to bring together all my skills. I would love to work a bit less and spend more time with my family though…
Who inspires you and why?
My former musical director at Oz, Ania Reynolds, inspires me daily on the job. The incomparable drummer Steve Gadd, soul singers Mavis Staples and Donny Hathaway, my wife and parents, and our dear leader Nathan Buckley.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would like to solve multinational corporation tax evasion through a unitary taxation system that determines profits based on genuine economic activity in each country. I would also like to remember to take my green bags to the supermarket.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Magnetic Island. My grandfather discovered its beauty when he went there to recover from malaria during the WWII. He bought a little flat in retirement there, and we visited them every year growing up.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them to the viewing area at Melbourne Airport. So many great planes. And then they don’t even need to leave the airport! They could fly home after that. Nothing better to see in Melbourne.
What are you currently reading?
Proust. Just kidding. I’m reading a painfully dry and boring book about the history of the U2 Spy Plane and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.
What are you currently listening to?
Various versions of the music I’m writing for Aurora – ranging from cabaret to post-classical minimalism to post rock to dirty trap music. Last night I finished a cha cha for half a dozen penguins to swing on a trapeze to. My job is hectic!
Happiness is?
A well executed TV show, group hugs with my wife and son, and a really good peanut butter sandwich.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully more sleep, the opportunity to keep making music for incredible performers and (relatedly) more federal government funding for the arts!
Jeremy is the Musical Director of Circus Oz’s new show, Aurora – which will be presented under the Circus Oz Big Top at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens from 18 September 2019. For more information, visit: www.circusoz.com for details.
Image: Jeremy Hopkins (supplied)