Who is Shane Woon?
I’m a writer, accidental independent theatre producer and secondary school English & Theatre Studies teacher. Teaching and mentoring young people is genuinely fulfilling and, while it has its stressful moments, having a foot in both creating theatre and teaching it keeps things interesting. I like taking on opportunities that excite and challenge me.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t change a single thing! I have sought out and taken on many different opportunities to develop myself and I think I am in the right spot. I am a lifelong learner and look forward to what comes next in my journey.
Who inspires you and why?
I am always in awe of the vast amount of artistic talent we have around us in Australia. I love seeing the works of other artists and how they express their view on the world through their works.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think the amount of distractions we have these days in the palm of our hand is really problematic. I think I would like to make more spaces that are tech free where people can connect and chat without the need to reach for our phones and devices. That is why I really enjoy going to the theatre, it is a time where I can get lost in a story and not think about the outside world.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love going to Malaysia. It is where my parents and relatives are from. I love visiting for the food and friendly people. The country has a good mix of cities to get lost in and picturesque islands to unwind on. My go to dishes: Assam Laksa, Cendol, Roti Canai, Hokkein Mee and Char Kway Teow.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The National Gallery of Victoria is one of my favourite places to take visitors to in Melbourne. There is always something of note on in the gallery. It is easy to get lost within its many spaces and be surrounded by beautiful artworks old and new.
What are you currently reading?
Non-Fiction: I am currently reading the The Queen is Dead by Stan Grant.
Fiction: Robbie Arnott’s Limberlost.
I am switching between these two authors on my train ride to work depending on my mood. Highly recommend both.
What are you currently listening to?
Checking my playlist and I was most recently listening to the soundtrack to two musical soundtracks: Fangirls and Six The Musical.
Happiness is?
Enjoying a cup of tea with some biscuits and a good yarn with friends full of laughter and contemplation.
What does the future hold for you?
I am starting to write drafts of new plays and ideas. I will normally have a few going on till one grabs me and I will see that to completion. I am hoping future developments and staging of new works within Australia and overseas.
In the meantime, it will be marking these essays that are staring at me on my desk. I love teaching and I think my work will always involve working with young people in some capacity.
Shane is the Playwright of Rabbit & Watson – which will be presented at the Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre from 15 – 26 July 2026. For more information, visit: www.arts.darebin.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Shane Woon (supplied)