Who is Anthony Nicola?
Anthony Nicola is a queer, Greek-Cypriot theatre maker, Flinders Drama Centre graduate and the Resident Director at State Theatre Company South Australia. I’m making my mainstage directing debut with the world premiere of Antigone by Elena Carapetis (after Sophocles).
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve never considered another path, and my brain won’t even let me go there. It’s just what I was born to do. I’ll always work in the arts in some form or another…
Who inspires you and why?
Right now, I’m inspired by Michaela Coel. Her show I May Destroy You is bloody awesome, and it changed my life. Just watch it.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think every theatrical experience has the potential to make a difference in the world. Theatre is like church to me. You enter this sacred communal space where there is the potential for true transformation. And that change might only manifest in a single audience member. But the notion that within a few hours you can change someone is a really beautiful thing. It sounds silly, and I wouldn’t believe it if it hadn’t happened to me time and time again.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I haven’t travelled much but I loved London. I find it to be a strangely romantic, gothic city… or maybe that’s how it looked through my eyes as a child. I can’t wait to go back.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d probably take them to the Adelaide Central Market. The food and produce is incredible, but the vibe and the people are equally incredible. You can feel the history.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading Young Mungo by Douglas Stuart. It’s dark and poetic and heart-breaking.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently listening to some artists as inspiration for Antigone. Princess Nokia, Rico Nasty, cupcakKe, Peaches, Doechii, Azealia Banks, Leikeli47, Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B and many more. Bus rides into work are fun.
Happiness is?
Happiness is spending time with my partner and our puppy in our home, calling my mum and checking in, reading a good book, seeing friends, eating good food… happiness is found in the little things I think.
What does the future hold for you?
I hope the future holds lots of laughter, and peace.
Anthony is making his mainstage directing debut with the world premiere of Antigone at the Odeon Theatre, Norwood from 27 May – 11 June 2022. For more information, visit: www.statetheatrecompany.com.au for details.
Image: Anthony Nicola – photo by Matt Byrne