Who is Stan Kouros.
I’ve had a lifetime to figure this out, but I think I’m still a work in progress. In a nutshell, I’m the son of Greek migrants who came to Australia via Melbourne in the 1950’s. My parents wanted me to study hard and become a Doctor or Lawyer, but I discovered theatre in high school and it was all I really wanted to do. I did do the good study thing and completed a science degree, and then promptly escaped to Sydney to pursue a life as an actor. That went pretty damn well for a while and my love of the craft led me to establish the Actors Centre Australia with Dean Carey – where I was a director and Chief Financial Officer. 29 years later, I’m blessed to be loved by three extraordinary women (my wife and daughters) and am returning to being a working actor, producer and writer. Back to my first loves I guess!
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Honestly, nothing. I am now doing what I always wanted to do, I am back in the arts from a performance and creation perspective, and I have the time to explore different projects in that world.
Who inspires you and why?
People who like all people. People who want to help us all attain a more equitable society, and a more equitable industry – it’s an inspiring time to come back to professional performance.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Put climate change action at the forefront of every government’s mandate.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
The Kimberley region of WA. The spirit, the colours and the indigenous culture there have made lasting impressions on me.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
My friends and relatives from Melbourne often visit – a favourite is to do the walk from the art gallery through the botanic gardens to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Now that’s Sydney!
What are you currently reading?
Barbarian Days – A Surfing Life by William Finnegan.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m devising a new cabaret, so I’m enjoying songs with great male vocals from musicals, jazz covers from the late great Kerrie Biddell, and rock classics from Bruce Springsteen.
Happiness is?
A close family made up of loved relatives and life-long friends.
What does the future hold for you?
The stage! Plays, musicals, cabarets, and hope for an even larger family. I can’t wait for my first grandchild.
Stan is currently appearing in Company of Rogues’ production of Boy Out of the Country at the Bondi Pavilion Theatre until 25 May 2019. For more information, visit: www.companyrogues.com for details.
Image: Stan Kouros (supplied)