Who is Cameron Hurry?
I’m a Neuroqueer actor and writer based in Meanjin (Brisbane) who’s very excited to be reprising the role of Mr Collins in Queensland Theatre Company’s return season of Pride and Prejudice.
Growing up with two older sisters we would, and still do, laugh at the most ridiculous personal jokes until we were in tears, making our parents suitably embarrassed and wondering what on earth they’d raised.
I believe laughter is one of the best things ever and since making an audience burst into laughter at the age of ten I’ve been hooked on acting and the profound effect actors can have on people.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would be in the here and now more. I’d put much less focus on the imaginary future where things don’t exist, take each moment and opportunity as they come, and trust that things will work out… Because they will.
Who inspires you and why?
My Mum. She’s been incapacitated by a massive stroke for almost nine years now, and she amazes me every day with her laughter and a smile. She sketches and colours, putting into perspective that you can be creative in the smallest of ways and still make an impact.
Also, obviously, fellow actors. Just watching my Pride and Prejudice peers I’m just amazed at how easy they all make it look while I’m busy trying to stop my brain from overthinking.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d like to create more works that combine Neurodivergence and Queerness so that people who identify as both can lean into and embrace their unique selves. I haven’t quite worked out how best to do this yet, but our possible stories are infinite.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
If I’m travelling overseas: Japan. I love its vibe and the culture. My partner and I had an amazing trip to Italy so I’d love to go back and see more of Europe and I’m desperate to go to the UK. Holidaying closer to home: a resort near the beach, with a cocktail of course, or a remote cabin in the woods where it’s quiet and time means nothing.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Brunch around Newstead or James Street, afternoon at Mt Coot-tha lookout, then dinner in Fish Lane, with a nightcap around West End. Plus, day trips to Stradbroke or, as I’ve recently discovered, Moreton Island. So beautiful!
What are you currently reading?
Slightly ashamed to admit… nothing. I wish I read books more. I’m much happier to read plays and movie scripts. My parents took me to Movie World when I was a kid and I astounded them when, out of any souvenir I could’ve chosen, I grabbed the original script from Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot (1959).
What are you currently listening to?
Not much of a podcast person. Again, I wish I was. Voices constantly talking doesn’t click with my visual nature. But I do lose myself in music. Especially when a good DJ clicks into the many potential layers of electronic dance music. It’s like a musical expression of the constant chatter in my brain.
Happiness is?
Takeaway with a bottle of wine and watching my favourite shows while the rain falls steadily outside.
What does the future hold for you?
After Pride and Prejudice, I look forward to rocking up to more rehearsal rooms, more stage doors, more film/TV sets ready to play. I look forward to creating something of my own again and sharing that with the world. Through laughter. With laughter. Always laughter.
Cameron stars as the iconic Mr Collins in Queensland Theatre Company’s Pride & Prejudice – which will be presented in the Playhouse – QPAC from 10 – 26 July 2026.
Image: Cameron Hurry (supplied)