On the Couch with Nick Sinclair

Nick Sinclair Arts Review On the CouchWho is Nick Sinclair?
I grew up on the mid north coast of NSW on the beach. I did a lot of theatre growing up with local companies and in eisteddfods. I moved to Armidale to study a Bachelor of Theatre and Performance at The University of New England, and at the end of 2015 I moved to Sydney to study musical theatre at NIDA. I would describe myself as outgoing and young at heart, but I definitely can be stubborn and a perfectionist which can be a little annoying at times.

What would you do differently to what you do now? 
I wouldn’t let other people’s opinions weigh so much on my choices. Trying to please myself for me is something I really struggle with. I’m my own biggest critic so that can be frustrating.

Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by so many people! I think Cate Blanchett is such a testament to Australian actors and the industry in Australia. She is a chameleon in her roles and that is something that I truly admire. Many of my past tutors have inspired my choices too. Tyran Parke has shared so many pearls of wisdom and advice that have changed my entire outlook on the industry and I am so grateful for that. Music has always inspired me in many ways. From a young age I would listen to songs and try and create stories to match the music. On any bad day I can always rely on music to lift my mood and give me that drive that I need.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
In a creative sense? I want to be part of a piece of theatre that changes people. Be it on a global scale or simply inspiring someone to change something about their life. Knowing that I’ve made a difference to someone is all I want.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Paris, hands down. I always dreamed of going as a kid and then when I finally arrived it was the greatest feeling in the world. The atmosphere, the architecture, the art and the culture are things I still have visceral memories of even now.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
It depends on if they’ve been to Sydney before, but I would always go a great cafe or a secret hidden bar. There is something about drinking underground or behind a hidden bookcase that really excites me.

What are you currently reading?
The A-Z of Modern Manners by David Meagher. Don’t ask me why but there is something fascinating about social and cultural etiquette and what we should and shouldn’t do.

What are you currently listening to?
Adele, on repeat for the last 6 months. The soundtrack to Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Happiness is?
Cups of tea in bed, late night snacks, overseas adventures and someone to share it all with.

What does the future hold for you?
I would love to wake up in the future and say that I get to do what I love for a living. Working in theatre full time and getting to develop new works would be an absolute dream!

Nick stars in Wayne Tunks’ latest play, BITCH at The Depot Theatre, Marrickville in an Australian premiere season from 2 June 2017. For more information, visit: www.thedepottheatre.com for details.

Image: Nick Sinclair