Who is Peter Goers?
I’m an Adelaide actor, director, designer of 54 incredible years’ experience but I have so much to learn. I’m also a retired ABC broadcaster.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Nothing, except to try to do it better. I believe what Samuel Beckett wrote: Fail again. Fail better.
Who inspires you and why?
All actors especially Martha Lott (Holden Street Theatres) and Robert Cusenza and directors Jim Sharman, David Mealor, Tyrone Guthrie, Orson Welles, plus Stephen Sondheim, Noel Coward, Ruth Gordon, Roger “Rouge” Shepard (at 95, the world’s oldest drag queen) audiences. Getting a laugh and applause inspires and sustains me. Theatre technicians inspire me. Audiences inspire everything.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Be kind, encourage kindness and generosity and hope like hell we can all survive Donald Trump.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Istanbul where I lived and worked in the theatre for three years and Mexico City, Buenos Aires and Havana, Cuba – glorious all.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Barnacle Bill’s Fish and Chippery or Vili’s Cafe (for a mixed grill and cream bun) and then to the theatre.
What are you currently reading?
The Three-Body Problem by Liu Cixin and The Last Tour about Paul Robeson’s visit to Australia in the 60s.
What are you currently listening to?
My lines for the play, HARVEY. I’ve not acted in a role other than myself for 22 years, so I need to learn lines which I’ve taped and listen to in endless playback.
Happiness is?
Trying. Endurance. Working. Work is more fun than fun. I also like to go to bed to let myself go.
What does the future hold for you?
HARVEY at Holden Street Theatres, more work. Hopefully more laughs and applause. Death.
Peter stars in Mary Chase’s HARVEY – which will be presented at Holden Street Theatres from 4 – 22 November 2025. For more information, visit: www.holdenstreettheatres.com for details.
Image: Peter Goers (supplied)