Who is Christopher Horsey?
He’s a dad, husband, dance teacher and lifelong creative in the world of the performing arts. A former world champion tap dancer and original cast member of Tap Dogs and Hot Shoe Shuffle, Christopher has spent most of his life dancing, choreographing, teaching, acting, singing, directing and chasing rhythm – from the Sydney Opera House to his own dance studio in South Melbourne, xlr8arts Dance Studio.
He’s a proud Aussie artist who somehow managed to turn his childhood habit of making noise with his feet into a career. These days, he divides his time between performing, teaching, choreographing and mentoring young dancers, often while juggling the glamorous tasks of packing school lunches and reminding his kids to do their homework. He’s proof that you can live a life in showbiz and still make it home for taco night.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d be a pilot. I’ve always admired the calm, collected confidence of someone who can guide hundreds of people through the blue sky, the clouds, a storm and turbulence and land safely. There’s a kind of artistry in that. The idea of taking off, literally, instead of figuratively, has always appealed to me – although I suspect I’d still find a way to turn the safety demonstration into a comedy routine. In truth, though, being a performer isn’t that different from being a pilot: both involve long hours, unpredictable passengers, and applause when you land safely.
Who inspires you and why?
My wife, Lucy Durack and children (Polly and Teddy), are my daily source of inspiration – they keep me grounded while also reminding me why I chase creative dreams in the first place. Watching them navigate the world with humour, resilience and kindness gives me hope for the future.
Beyond that, I’m inspired by anyone who uses their skills and time to help others – the unsung heroes, teachers, volunteers and artists who bring light into dark corners without needing a spotlight. The world can feel a little self-absorbed sometimes, and I find it refreshing when people do good quietly, without hashtags or fanfare. Those are the true rhythm-makers in life — the ones keeping time while the rest of us are improvising.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d make sure every student learns the dance of the Indigenous people of their region. Not as a token gesture or one-off workshop, but as a genuine part of education — because dance is one of the oldest ways humans have told stories and understood belonging.
Learning those movements is learning about Country, connection and respect. If kids grow up knowing that the first rhythm of this land was created long before records show, then maybe we’d have a generation that walks (and dances) with deeper awareness. On a smaller scale, I also believe in making a difference through art – reminding people that joy, empathy and community can be created with nothing more than music, movement and an open heart.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Hamilton Island – it’s the perfect mix of paradise and practicality. It’s beautiful, relaxed, and the kids can entertain themselves while you pretend to read a novel but actually just stare at the water in a semi-meditative state. There’s something about that Queensland sun and sea breeze that resets the creative brain.
That said, now that my kids are getting older, I’m starting to eye more far-flung tropical destinations – places where the biggest decision of the day is between sailing or a hammock nap. Maybe one day I’ll make it to Bora Bora or back to Hawaii (where I performed in Tap Dogs at the Honolulu Theatre), but for now, Hamilton Island still holds the title for most sand between the toes with least chance of losing your luggage.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
First stop: the NGV (because art makes you feel clever before lunch). Then we’d wander down the Yarra, while enjoying a perfectly poured Melbourne coffee. A visit to the MCG would follow, ideally during a big AFL game – not necessarily because I’m a sports tragic, but because nothing says “Melbourne” quite like yelling at a goal umpire from 200 metres away.
Finally, we’d catch a tram down to the bay, grab dinner by the water and watch the sunset. There’s something unbeatable about Melbourne when the light hits the skyline just right – art, sport, food and a view. Why? Because it’s a full performance in one day: Act One (culture), Act Two (drama on the field), Act Three (delicious coastal finale).
What are you currently reading?
Letterman: The Last Giant of Late Night – The Definitive Story. It’s a fascinating deep dive into one of television’s most original minds – a man who made awkwardness an art form (before Larry David). I’m drawn to people like Letterman because they remind me that vulnerability and wit aren’t opposites.
As someone who’s spent a lifetime onstage, I understand the balancing act between showmanship and sincerity. Reading about his evolution – from gap-toothed rebel to reflective elder statesman – is oddly comforting. It’s proof that even the greats evolve, stumble, and keep trying to make people laugh anyway. Also, I secretly wish I had his desk.
What are you currently listening to?
Beck. Because nobody else can blend melancholy and groove quite like him. His songs always sound like the internal soundtrack of someone who’s both deep in thought and oblivious to it. I love artists who don’t fit neatly into one box – Beck’s music jumps from funk to folk to electro without apologising.
That’s the kind of creative freedom I aspire to. Plus, when you’ve spent a lifetime counting time in eights, it’s refreshing to listen to someone who seems blissfully unconcerned about where the “one” actually is. Oh and also – I can’t contain my excitement for the new Jamiroquai album.
Happiness is?
Eating tacos with my wife and kids while watching the Broncos win a close game of the NRL. Ideally, there’s laughter, mild chaos, and at least one child stealing the last scoop of my daughter Polly’s award-winning guacamole.
Happiness for me is that combination of family, food and sport – simple pleasures that remind me that life doesn’t need to be a production to feel meaningful. Of course, if there’s a family dance off in the lounge room, even better. Bonus points if no one spills guacamole on the couch and the Broncos actually hold their defence in the last five minutes. In that case, I call it a perfect night.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, a lot of the same – creating, performing, teaching, and helping young artists find their rhythm both onstage and in life. Watching my kids grow into kind, curious adults is my main act now, and it’s one I’m happy to repeat.
I’d love to keep making work that brings joy to audiences while mentoring the next generation of dancers and storytellers. The future might include fewer 8am rehearsals and more coffee breaks, but if I’m still surrounded by good people, laughter, and the occasional pas des bourree/shuffle-ball-change, I’ll consider that a standing ovation. And who knows – maybe one day I’ll even earn that pilot’s licence. Stranger things have happened in showbiz.
Christopher can be seen alongside Alinta Chidzey in On Tap – which will be presented at Hamer Hall on Monday 10 November 2025, as part of Arts Centre Melbourne’s Morning Melodies program. For more information, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Christopher Horsey (supplied)