Who is Chris Petridis?
I’m an artist and theatre maker, lighting designer, cook and friend and father. I love telling stories with light and technology. I have worked heavily in theatre and dance and am more recently applying those learnings and expertise to large scale outdoor events. I like cooking for my family and friends and particularly love a tray of roast potatoes.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’m not sure what I’d do differently… probably invest in Bitcoin. I am happy with where I am in life now and I think if I did things differently then I may have ended up in a different place.
Who inspires you and why?
|I am often inspired by my collaborators on whatever project I am on at the time. Right now I am incredibly inspired by my fellow artists on Night Visions.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I was Prime Minister, I would make it mandatory that people travel overseas and outside of their comfort zone. I think you learn a lot about yourself, your home and have a new appreciation for those things when you travel. I’d also implement a wealth and resources tax.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love India and have travelled there many times. It is such a large country and you can have an incredible breadth of experience. It is a place of great spirituality and adventure and the food is amazing.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them to the Barossa Valley for some hikes and wine. It’s an iconic region of South Australia and essential to visit.
What are you currently reading?
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. It’s a great book which for me is about love and the creative process.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Interplanetary Criminal DJ mixes lately. I’ve also been listening to the amazing composition by Jethro Woodward for a new show I’m working on called Night Visions for Illuminate Adelaide. Part of my role in doing the lighting design for some of the zones involves listening to the music a lot and making decisions about how to light each moment.
Happiness is?
A warm cup of tea on a cold morning, sitting in the sun.
What does the future hold for you?
Night Visions is my current project and my near future, I am excited to install our show into the Adelaide Botanical Gardens. I’m excited to get on the ground with my fellow artists and all knuckle down and create the most amazing show we can.
Chris is the Associate Creative Director on Night Visions – which will be presented at the Adelaide Botanic Garden from 2 – 20 July 2025, as part of Illuminate Adelaide. For more information, visit: www.illuminateadelaide.com for details.
Image: Chris Petridis – photo by Thomas McCammon