Who is Stefo Nantsou?
I’m going to be the first head of state of the Republic of Australia?
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Play more guitar, preferably with the TO BE HONEST show band.
Who inspires you and why?
Indigenous Australians combating centuries of injustice and building a shared future. All the young people marching in the streets around the world drawing attention to the perils of climate change, their passion and courage gives me hope for the future. And those marching in the streets in many countries around the world for a more equitable society, seems like more and more people are hitting the streets for a fairer world. We are living in epic times.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would be more active politically, in my local area, in my union, with my fellow arts workers.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lake Ohrid, Macedonia – an absolute magical place unspoiled by hordes of tourists, beautiful vistas, great people and wonderful culture. As a Macedonian it’s my Mecca.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Opera Bar, Circular Quay, they’ll get the views, the vibe, have a few drinks and some good food, plus we’re walking distance to The Rocks, The Domain, the Galleries, and it’s top shelf for a photo op.
What are you currently reading?
Stories of Strength – an oral history book by Zainab Kadhim and Jessica Paraha about local people and their amazing lives in and around Western Sydney.
What are you currently listening to?
The birds around my place blasting out their springtime mating calls… and occasionally SBS Chill. In the car its compilation CDs lovingly prepared by my daughter Bella.
Happiness is?
Being with my Amore, being with my family, holding my newborn grandson.
What does the future hold for you?
Going to Norway to make a co-production with my company Zeal Theatre and a Norwegian theatre company Teater Grimsborken about the Tampa incident of 2001 when a Norwegian freighter saved the lives of 438 people from a sinking ship and was refused entry into Australian waters. This ugly episode in Australia’s history sparked the detestable off-shore processing policies for refugees on Nauru, Manus and Christmas Islands.
Stefo has written and directed To Be Honest – the voice of a new generation from Western Sydney – at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres: 21 – 23 November 2019. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au for details.
Image: Stefo Nantsou (supplied)