Who is Dave Coombs?
I’m an independent circus performer based in Melbourne, settling back into Aussie life after a few extended periods overseas teaching, performing and travelling through the Middle East, Europe, and the US.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
If I wasn’t doing circus I’d actually probably be working in health care. The thing I like about circus is that it brings me into close contact with other people, and also lets me bring a smile to people’s faces. Nursing and other medical professions also do this in very different ways, so I feel like I’m drawn to that environment.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired most by people who are walking paths I’ve already walked. I look at the up and coming circus stars in Australia at the moment and that motivates me to work harder, but also to ensure they have pathways to perform and create new work. They have a freshness and enthusiasm which is contagious and helps me focus my own creative energy.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d try to ensure the only people given access to positions of power were the ones who didn’t want it.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
NYC has to top the list. I’ve always loved the bustle of cities and New York has a vibrancy to its people that I haven’t experienced anywhere else.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
Chapel Street, for sure. Great food, great coffee and some of the greatest people watching in Melbourne.
What are you currently reading?
I just finished The Great Zoo of China by Matthew Reilley. Knocked it off in two days because I couldn’t put it down.
What are you currently listening to?
This show is full of covers of well known songs and in the process of creating my soundtrack, I discovered some incredibly interesting versions of some great songs. Postmodern Jukebox have made an artform of changing current songs to fit classic eras of music – so you’ll be sure to hear some of their songs in the show.
Happiness is?
A huge bowl of Pasta… extra cheese!
What does the future hold for you?
That really depends on how Uncovered progresses. I’d love to take it further with a little more time, and possibly start working on some other shows that have been brewing in the back of my head.
Dave is currently appearing in Uncovered – a work he also created and directed – at Gasworks Arts Park until 30 January 2016. For more information, visit: www.gasworks.org.au for details.
Image: Dave Coombs