Who is Bert LaBonte?
I’m a Dad, a Husband, a friend, an Actor, a singer, a wannabe professional sportsmen… in that order
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Umm… maybe have more patience. But I’m working on that.
Who inspires you and why?
My 2 Boys (Oliver 10 & Felix 5) they just make me want to be a better human and teach them how to be.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d love to stop poverty and hunger. Everyone deserves an equal crack at this life regardless of your race or religion. Food and shelter… not a big ask. Spend less money on trying to look younger and live till your 100 and look after others worse off. Cos we are all guaranteed one thing in this life…
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Lorne – Victoria. It’s a great little town to get away for a week or weekend. And it’s only 50 mins from my house and New York… for an indulgence.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
MCG to watch the footy. Because it’s great theatre at every level.
What are you currently reading?
The Leopard by Jo Nesbo. I love a crime novel!
What are you currently listening to?
Too much bad pop music… bloody kids.
Happiness is?
This. Everything… my life. I’m very lucky!
What does the future hold for you?
Who knows but if it’s half as good as the story so far then it should be fun!
Bert LaBonte is one of Australia’s most versatile stage actors. His extensive theatre credits include Rupert and The Mountaintop for Melbourne Theatre Company; Phèdre for Bell Shakespeare; and was recently seen in Malthouse Theatre’s The Good Person of Szechuan.
No Stranger to musical theatre, his credits include The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Melbourne Theatre Company/Sydney Theatre Company); An Officer and a Gentleman (GFO); Grey Gardens, Chess, and Kismet (The Production Company); Guys and Dolls (Ambassadors Theatre Group); Jesus Christ Superstar (UK tour for Really Useful Group); and When I Fall In Love – The Nat King Cole Story, just to name a few.
Bert received a Green Room Award nomination for his role in The Mountaintop and a Helpmann Award nomination for 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. For his performance in An Officer and a Gentleman, Bert won a Helpmann Award for Best Supporting Role in a Musical. His film and television credits include Animal Kingdom, Nightmares and Dreamscapes, Rats and Cats, Evil Never Dies and Salem’s Lot.
Bert will be starring in Let’s Get It On – The Life & Music of Marvin Gaye at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre 9 – 14 September. For more information, visit: www.letsgetiton.com.au for details.
Image: Bert LaBonte