Who is Meng Jinghui?
Meng Jinghui is considered one of the most influential theatre artists in Asia – his production of Two Dogs lays claim to being one of the most popular works in China.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
My 12-year-old son told me that he dreamed to be a baker. I wish I can be a baker in Tokyo, Japan and just make the kind of cake for decades, fascinated by the people around the world.
Who inspires you and why?
Fellini – He makes me realise that between lies, there is a world keep on changing. Mayakovsky – He makes me realise that between poems, there is also revolution. Woody Allen – He makes me realise that between songs, there is also love.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
The things I am doing now. You can change the world with your eyes, heart and foot.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I like anywhere with sea and mountains. No particular reasons.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I will bring them to the backstage of my theatre. I will show them the mirrors, dressing table and also the picture of my artists on the backstage wall. I think that is warmest place.
What are you currently reading?
The Adventure of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain and Fatigue of Life and Death by Mo Yan
What are you currently listening to?
Tom Waits and Green Day.
Happiness is?
‘Happiness’ is just a word. Happy is about losing what you have lost, and getting what you have lost.
What does the future hold for you?
Future will bring me bread, air, water, friendship, love and peace.
Meng Jinghui’s production of Two Dogs will be presented as part of Adelaide Festival Centre’s OzAsia Festival: 29 September – 1 October, before playing the Melbourne Festival: 6 – 9 October 2016.
Image: Meng Jinghui