Who is Amy Lehpamer?
I’m an actor and singer who mostly works in musicals. I grew up in Geelong, have mostly lived in Melbourne, but I fell in love in Brisbane and have been based up there for the last 18 months. My favourite roles have been Maria in The Sound of Music, Dusty Springfield in Dusty and Christine Colgate in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. I’m about to play Mrs Walker in The Who’s Tommy for Victorian Opera.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve asked myself this question a lot in recent times – I think a lot of artists have. The honest answer is I don’t know. But I spend a lot of time thinking about politics and the media. Perhaps journalism might have been that “other” path. And I do do a good “news” voice.
Who inspires you and why?
Writers. I want to write more, and I am so in awe of people that put pen to page and make things and are brave enough to then publish and/or perform their work.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Invent an instant fact-checking plug-in for internet search engines. Failing that, try to drum up more money for education. For teachers, for teaching resources. That might achieve a similar end…
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Tokyo and Kyoto. Endless corners to explore, both urban and natural, incredible food and culture, a latent knowledge of Japanese to try and extract from the recesses of my brain, people patient enough to deal with me doing that.
When friends come to town, what attractionwould you take them to, and why?
A show. Comedy or cabaret or a band or a musical. The live performance industry needs our love and attention and nurturing now more than ever. And my goodness our talent pool is extraordinary.
What are you currently reading?
On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. And Trick Mirror by Jia Tolentino.
What are you currently listening to?
I have playlist called “we’re getting married” (cause I’m getting married). It’s full of *excellent* love songs. My partner is in Brisbane and I’m working in Melbourne, so I put it on whenever I’m feeling a bit dismayed by the distance (and border closures).
Happiness is?
Something I feel really lucky to know well.
What does the future hold for you?
Well, there’s The Who’s Tommy! The show has so much electricity in it, I’m really excited that it’s happening and that we’re performing it in the Palais – such an iconic theatre with rock’n’roll pedigree. Later in the year, I’m performing with the Adelaide Symphony in December, a “best of” musical theatre program. And I’m hoping my partner and I can pick a Covid-safe wedding date!
Amy stars as Mrs Walker in Victorian Opera’s production of The Who’s Tommy at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda from 13 – 21 August 2021. For more information, visit: www.victorianopera.com.au for details.
Image: Amy Lehpamer (supplied)