Who is Le Gateau Chocolat?
Drag performance artist, opera singer, uncle, brother, partner, rhythmic ribbon gymnast with a penchant for storytelling, lycra, glamour and high fashion.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Nothing. I try to be present and conscientious so as to avoid giving my future-self cause for regret. Life is a huge learning experience, one that provides you several opportunities for growth, evolution and redemption. Stay open and present. I’d maybe read more and would definitely do more scales.
Who inspires you and why?
Vocally: Jessye Norman, Leontyne Price, Renee Fleming… to name a few. Sopranos have my heart.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
What I’m doing now: using the performance platform as more than a means to entertain, but as an opportunity to incite discourse; provoke thought; challenge stereotype and the status quo; and give a minority group a voice.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Thailand. I find they are incredibly kind and cordial people. It’s beautiful, great weather and killer shopping.
What are you currently reading?
Twelfth Night – in preparation for playing Feste at Shakespeare’s Globe in London.
What are you currently listening to?
Right this instant: Yuja Wang’s mesmerising performance of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major.
Happiness is?
Being comfortable in who you are and somehow, despite impetus to the contrary, believing that you are enough.
What does the future hold for you?
Twelfth Night at the Globe. A Night at the Musicals at the Darwin Festival; Black Rider at the Malthouse Theatre in Melbourne; a return to my family show Duckie later in the year; writing and composing new shows. And somehow fitting a life into all of that!
Presented as part of the 2017 Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Le Gateau Chocolat performs in the Australian premiere season of Black in the Dunstan Playhouse: 22 – 23 June. For more information, visit: www.adelaidecabaretfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Le Gateau Chocolat – photo by Magnus Hastings