Who is Brandon Pape?
A producer, director, and designer who is Artistic Director of Antipodes Theatre Company. I’m originally from Dubuque, Iowa and relocated to Melbourne with my (Australian) partner after living in New York City for six years.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’d probably be an architect or a casting director.
Who inspires you and why?
Lately, I’ve been impressed by the work of performers who have taken up directing – Greta Gerwig, John Krasinski, Olivia Wilde. I get bored when I’m doing the same thing for long periods of time, and I feel inspired when other people have success branching out into fields they’re not known for.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I was fortunate to have some great teachers in my life, so I’ve always believed that supporting and empowering young people is a great way to make a difference.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I would love to go back to France and Spain, mostly for the food. Also, back to the U.S. to see my parents because I try to see them every chance I get.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Botanical Gardens during the summer, and I think everyone should experience the Laneways at least once while they’re in Melbourne.
What are you currently reading?
Ken Wilbur’s A Brief History of Everything (which is one of Dave Malloy’s sources of inspiration for Ghost Quartet).
What are you currently listening to?
A lot of Tom Waits and Fiona Apple. It seems like the right headspace to be in for working on this musical.
Happiness is?
…a weekend away with my partner and our two border collies.
What does the future hold for you?
We’re currently finalising Antipodes Theatre Company’s 2020 season, and I’m hoping to do more design work. I’ll also be traveling to Japan for the first time in March.
Brandon is the director of Dave Malloy’s Ghost Quartet – which will be presented by Antipodes Theatre Company in an Australian premiere season at Gasworks Arts Park from 14 August 2019. For more information, visit: www.antipodestheatre.com for details.
Image: Brandon Pape (supplied)