On the Couch with Mark G Nagle

Mark G Nagle AAR On the CouchWho is Mark G Nagle?
The director of Fucking Men – opening 8 February at the New Theatre as part of this year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would listen more attentively, write down my thoughts and those of others. I would speak less and ask more questions.

Who inspires you and why?
I am always impressed by the work done by The National Theatre in London. I am also inspired by the work of Simon McBurney at Complicite. I love both companies marriage of text, image, motion, music and atmosphere.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would make it compulsory for us humans to see the good in others. Thereby automatically respecting others’ work and lives. There’d be a whole less hatred and war.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
I am crazy about islands. Travelling there on a ship would be ideal. I have experienced many Mediterranean islands. One day I hope to spend a month in Sicily. It’s the combination of rocky coastal beaches and fascinating interiors with remote villages and archeological ruins.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d drive through the Royal National park south of Sydney and along the magnificent coast road down to Thirroul. There are such great places to stop off at any time of the year. Beaches and rock pools in summer and little towns in winter with tea shops full of curios. Better than the Blue Mountains any day.

What are you currently reading?
Stephen Fry’s Mythos – his informative and hilarious telling of Greek legend.

What are you currently listening to?
The play I am directing has made me very nostalgic for my youth. So I am re-immersing myself in the music of The Go-Betweens, The Lightning Seeds and James…. among others… Hey I might even go dancing again soon.

Happiness is?
Feeling safe, protected, and having rewarding work.

What does the future hold for you?
More opportunities to make theatre and a better balance in my life.

Mark is directing the Australian premiere of Joe Dipietro’s Fucking Men at Sydney’s New Theatre from 6 February 2018. For more information, visit: www.newtheatre.org.au for details.

Image: Mark G Nagle (supplied)