Who is Christian Charisiou?
Good question! I am originally from Melbourne from a hardworking and loving family. I have always loved acting, singing and making people laugh. I have a goofy and “stupid” sense of humour that was inspired early on by Jim Carrey’s Ace Ventura. I love big, work hard (in all the ways), a secret big nerd and go to the gym quite a lot… but my last meal on earth would be all the bread and fried potatoes you can give me!
What would you do differently from what you do now?
In terms of career? I’d probably become a psychologist, I love human behaviour and understanding how we work and helping people with the complexity of our lives and our minds. In general… well, I would do many things differently but that’s life; building and walking the road at the same time.
Who inspires you and why?
I don’t think I am inspired by any one individual to be honest. I would say simply I am inspired by those I have shared the road with and courageously shared their story. I’m inspired by my communities struggles, resilience, highs and lows, generosity, courage and love.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
The list is ever growing in this day and age. However, I’ve had a dream of creating a “pro-bono” psychologist program for schools aimed at offering psychologist services to help teens and young adults struggling and support them through it. That would be top of the list.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
This has changed in the last few years. For adventure, it would be Nepal and hiking the Himalayas. Relaxing holiday would be the Southern Coast of Sri-Lanka. Anywhere beach side in Portugal as well, actually.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
No matter where I am, it’s always the interesting food places and attractions with energy. In Melbourne, it would be eating in Fitzroy, NGV for the culture, St Kilda Beach for a sunset walk and then probably hit the town again in Fitzroy. In Sydney, I’d hop around the suburbs, so: Inner West for the start of the day, then Clovelly to Bondi walk for a swim and sun then Surry Hills for the nightlife.
What are you currently reading?
My character Eli in Eureka Day had an obsession with Ayn Rand in college, so I’m working through Atlas Shrugged, but I’m also reading The Mad Ship by Robin Hobb.
What are you currently listening to?
I have a very diverse taste in music but I’m addicted to Jacob Banks album Lies About the War. Such incredible music.
Happiness is?
The quiet moments. The gaps between everything else of ease and contentment. Oh, and a bowl of hot chips!
What does the future hold for you?
I’m off travelling in August, which will be very fun, otherwise, I’m waiting to hear back on a couple of exciting projects and just seeing where the road leads me!
Christian stars as Eli in Jonathan Spector’s Eureka Day – which will be presented at the Seymour Centre from 29 May – 21 June 2025. For more information, visit: www.seymourcentre.com for details.
Image: Christian Charisiou (supplied)