Who is Michael Mack?
I’ve been summed up by many people with one word… Intense. It varies in meaning depending on the individual’s tone of voice. I’m an unknown Melbourne Actor trying to make it. I drink a lot of tea. If we ever meet, I would remind you of someone else in your life… trust me, it happens a lot.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Ice Road Trucker. I already have my nickname picked out.
Who inspires you and why?
Tom Hardy, Ben Mendelsohn. I relate to their darkness and respect their intense commitment to embodying each character they play.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
That’s a tough question. If I ever got to a place in my career where I had some influence, I would like to bring more public awareness to mental health and suicide. I would like to diminish the stigma surrounding these issues. The character I play in Aaron Posner’s Stupid F**king Bird, Con, deals first hand with suicide. I think the only way to honour such a role, is to attempt to show as much truth in the performance as I can. I think that all actors hope that somehow their acting will affect someone positively or that the overall work somehow shines a light on an issue that needs addressing.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
America. As a kid I attended Alphabet Ranch Kindergarten in Sacramento, California. My Dad was in the Air Force and we were posted to the States for 3 years. Most of my childhood is a blur, however I have very clear fond memories of that time.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m an introvert and not an attractions kind of guy. With all honesty I would (and have) Googled ‘What do people do in Melbourne?’
What are you currently reading?
The Art of Love by Erich Fromm.
What are you currently listening to?
My Heart Cries – Dave Richardson and The Invincibles.
Happiness is?
A never ending game of cat and mouse.
What does the future hold for you?
New York. Everything I love comes from New York. I plan to go over to visit, check it out and hopefully lay the foundation to possibly one day live and work as an actor in New York. Unless Melbourne wants to keep me?! It’s tough getting work as an actor in Australia, just ask all my friends.
Michael appears as Con in Aaron Posner’s Stupid F**king Bird at the Brunswick Mechanics Institute until 26 February 2017. For more information, visit: www.metanoiatheatre.com for details.
Image: Michael Mack (supplied)