Who is Andrew Cutcliffe?
Great question! I’m still figuring that out. Being a performer and story teller aside, my wife Courtney and three kids are my constant and I draw a large part of who I am from the purpose they give me as a husband and father.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I always thought I’d be a pilot growing up. Maybe a chef? I love travelling and languages, so secretly I fantasise about being spy, less Bond and more Mata Hari.
Who inspires you and why?
I draw inspiration from lots of people. My siblings constantly inspire me with their resilience, ingenuity and humanity. My wife is jaw dropping in her ability to dedicate herself, whether it’s to our family or to her work. I love watching people who are really good at what they do but achieve their success with genuine humility.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m always asking myself that. Not that I’m a Good Samaritan. I’m just aware that there is a lot of inequity and injustice in the world, whether it’s on the street outside our homes or on the other side of the planet. Being aware and helping others be aware of the world’s challenges is a good start I guess. Taking that next step toward actually making a difference is tricky and I’m not sure I’ve been all that successful thus far. I’m working on it.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
We are a big beach-family. Love heading up north to my visit my Dad’s place on the mid north coast. It’s simple but beautiful.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
A ferry ride from Balmain to Watsons Bay. Some hot chips at the pub and a swim at Camp Cove.
What are you currently reading?
I’ve bitten off more than I can chew… I’ve got a few on the boil. All Our Shimmering Skies by Trent Dalton, Restless by William Boyd and To Sing of War by Catherine McKinnon. I’ll let you know my thoughts when I finish them in a couple of years.
What are you currently listening to?
In a classic Aussie rock phase at the moment: INXS, James Reyne, mixed in with an amazing pianist I stumbled upon, Jorge Bolet. My eldest son and I listen to lots of The Moth podcast on the school commute.
Happiness is?
Seeing my kids fail at something, then their discovery of determination and recognising they can do it with hard work. The end result of that is happiness.
What does the future hold for you?
A huge part of being an artist of any kind is accepting that the future holds many possibilities. I can dream and plan and fight. Or I can take it as it comes. The one thing I do know is that the older I get the more comfortable I am in, in not going through every door that opens. Being a little more picky-choosy. I guess that ties back into your first question. Who am I? I’m still figuring it out, but enjoying the discovery more and more.
Andrew stars in the world premiere season of James Elazzi’s KARIM – which will be presented at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres from 25 July – 3 August 2024. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au for details.
Image: Andrew Cutcliffe (supplied)