Who is Bayley Prendergast?
I’m an actor. I just completed my Bachelor of Performing Arts at The Actor’s Centre Australia and currently in a show at the New Theatre in Sydney called Beautiful Thing.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d probably make wiser financial decisions… Or maybe buy a boat or motorbike or something. I’m not sure.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by people who demonstrate an unwavering dedication to their passion. People like J.D Salinger or Prince, in their respective fields, who were uncompromising in their devotion to their art.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
My only hope is to make someone feel represented, if that makes sense. Whether it’s in my acting or writing, I hope to tap into some form of truth that an audience member can connect to and feel understood. Like someone is speaking directly to them. I feel like good art does that for people.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
It’s not exactly exotic but whenever I get the chance, I head home to the Blue Mountains to escape the construction noise outside of my window.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I really need to get out and see more of Sydney. I’m not too sure. I would probably suggest the Art Gallery of NSW or MCA. I never really go by myself, so I would probably take this as an opportunity. Plus, I’m very interested in making my friends believe I’m cultured.
What are you currently reading?
I just finished The Road by Cormac McCarthy. It’s a quick read but it weighs heavy on the soul. Approach in high spirits only.
What are you currently listening to?
I just listened to Idiot Prayer by Nick Cave. Other than that, Prince is still the mainstay.
Happiness is?
A byproduct. I don’t think it’s something that can be pursued like an objective. It’s born out of pursuing other worthwhile endeavors like finding something you’re passionate about or establishing an incredible friendship with someone. But I’m not sure. This is kind of a hard question for a 24-year-old.
What does the future hold for you?
Beautiful Thing opens tonight which is very exciting for me. It’s always incredibly interesting to see how a play takes shape in front of a live audience. Beyond that I’m looking forward to a quieter schedule so I can work towards getting my own projects in front of an audience. Unless someone offers me a role in their play. Then I’d drop everything and commit to another three months of rehearsal.
Bayley stars as Ste in New Theatre’s production of Jonathan Harvey’s Beautiful Thing – presented as part of the 2021 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras: 3 February – 6 March. For more information, visit: www.newtheatre.org.au for details.
Image: Bayley Prendergast – courtesy of New Theatre