Who is Willa King?
Willa King is an Australian-British transformational character actor known for her powerful performance style and technical precision. Her career spans over two decades across theatre, cabaret, voiceover, and film, complemented by a dynamic practice as a director and creator of both classical and original productions.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Not a lot. I took a substantial hiatus from acting and I am so grateful to be back at it. It’s a tough profession but, for me, there really isn’t another job I would want to do.
Who inspires you and why?
Sounds a bit mental but ants, octopuses, and seahorses. Ants have incredibly sophisticated communities (Empire of the Ants blew my mind). Octopuses as we know are insanely intelligent and anarchic, which appeals to me for some reason. And seahorses display remarkable gender equality – can’t argue with that.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Yikes, I don’t really have an answer for that. I hope that by not being a dick that it helps in some small way. But I suppose the more printable answer is that I want to contribute to courageous, thought-provoking, electrifying shows. I recently went to see Suzie Miller’s Prima Facie starring Sheridan Harbridge and it will stay with me forever. Such prescient work. So that, yeah – if I can.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere I’ve never been before. I really thrive on new experiences, exploring, and engaging with the unfamiliar (probably why I’m an actor). Most of the best experiences I’ve had on holiday came down to a serendipitous group of factors aligning, but I really loved interrailing round Europe. That was pretty special.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Any recently “discovered” restaurant. And if there’s a good show on (there are normally too many), a show – the State Theatre is worth a visit just to see the bathroom – what whimsy!
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading a couple of things, some for work, some for interest. I’ve got a couple of plays on the go and also The Five by Hallie Rubenhold.
What are you currently listening to?
A podcast about the tv show Colombo, Just One More Thing. Peter Falk was a wonderful actor and the early Colombo episodes are just gold to me.
Happiness is?
Working on a good project, pushing myself, and being at home with my husband.
What does the future hold for you?
Great question. Who knows? I could never have predicted five years ago that I’d be where I am in life and I’m very grateful for all of it, so I can only say, hopefully, more good things.
Willa stars as Chloe in Zak Zarafshan’s The Boys Are Kissing – which will be presented at The Loading Dock Theatre – Qtopia Sydney from 12 – 29 August 2026. For more information, visit: www.qtopiasydney.com.au for details.
Image: Willa King (supplied)