On the Couch with Bryan Probets

QT-The-Holidays-Bryan-ProbetsWho is Bryan Probets?
Bryan Probets is a Brisbane based actor who enjoys both film and theatre, loves British humour and has accepted the fact he’ll never quite grow up. He’s introverted and quiet in private which is fine by him and he is both a worrier and a reckless risk taker at the same time.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
I think I probably would be an Archeologist. I love history and finding out about those who have gone before. I enjoy learning from the past and realising that the fundamental thing that unites us with the past is the fact that human nature fundamentally has never changed and never will.

Who inspires you and why?
I have many people who inspire, but especially in this current Covid environment I’ve developed a renewed respect for my fellow arts workers, whether they be actors, directors, film makers, dancers and more. For them, every day is a risk. There is no real safety net to rely on, they instead allow chance and passion to be their guide. It’s not money or fickle fame that drives them but an insatiable and selfless desire to tell stories through their art, for the sake of entertainment, education and the benefit of others. A glorious mystery!

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
To begin with I’d ban all reality television and cooking shows. What an insult. Is this the best we can do? We have the ability to challenge, provoke and change lives for the better through the medium of television and all we can do Is to dumb down one’s intelligence with this banal puerility. I’d also forbid so called comedians sitting on panels offering their self congratulatory jokes and opinions on the world while smugly making fun of public identities. We have enough cynicism and sarcasm in our daily lives without others feeding on people’s foibles or misfortunes.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere that’s not the beach. A mountain hideaway is the preferred option. Somewhere where I’m forced to get warm and still have access to coffee. I just enjoy the quiet and the spiritual recharging that comes from being in the hinterland.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The first thing I do is to take them up to Mt Cootha. It gives an excellent 360 degree view of Brisbane.

What are you currently reading?
I have a biography of Ian McKellen waiting in the wings. Can’t wait!

What are you currently listening to?
Kings of Convenience. A wonderful Norwegian indie folk pop duo. Sublime

Happiness is?
Acceptance.

What does the future hold for you?
A healthy dose of the unknown mixed with a tiny bit of knowing. Just the way it should be.


Bryan stars as Bob Holiday in Queensland Theatre’s production of David Megarrity’s award-winning play, The Holidays in the Bille Brown Theatre: 14 November – 12 December 2020. For more information, visit: www.queenslandtheatre.com.au for details.

Image: Bryan Probets – courtesy of Queensland Theatre