Who is David Harris?
That would differ from every person who knows me. If we think of our lives as a collection of photos, we are all made up of different snapshots. Some people only know me from seeing one photo, others would know the equivalent of a chapter or many pages of photos, few will know my whole album. Therefore, each person will tell a different version of me… there is no one answer.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would worry less about things that have not even happened. I have always been a “worry wart” (as my mum used to tell me) and can obsess too much on what could go wrong. I always like to assess the pros and cons to any given issue or prospect, but it is a fine line between doing due diligence and eliminating the risks, and worrying unnecessarily.
Who inspires you and why?
People with strong work ethics. People who have vision and goals for the future and strive to achieve them. I believe you see what you look for, so those people who visualize what they want and work towards getting it inspire me. People who find solutions instead of complaining and people who find humour and a silver lining from any situation. My parents inspire me. They gave me unconditional love and supported the choices I made in my life: my career, my jobs, my place of residence, among others. Their marriage, whilst not always easy at times, is one I look at with respect and admiration. My partner, who never accepts no for an answer and finds a way forward with drive and tenacity.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I am more aware now then ever of inequality and biases, that both individuals and entire cultures, display. Because of these, I am also very aware of the uphill marathon many people of difference races, sexual and gender identities, and all minority groups have to run, compared to others not in minority groups. Being in a somewhat position of ‘privilege’, I hope I can help make people more aware of their biases, conscious or unconscious, in a non-confrontational manner, and thus help minority groups be given the same standing in society.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere with sun and water! I love the beach. I love Spain and have traveled numerous times to holiday there. I love the European culture and would love to live there at some point in my life.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
That depends on the individual friends and their tastes and interests. Having said that, you can’t go wrong with introducing them to the local coffee and food culture.
What are you currently reading?
Talking about being more aware of differences, I am currently reading Making Girls and Boys: Inside the Science of Sex by Australian science writer Jane McCredie who discusses the binary concept of gender and how it is not so binary after all. I also recently found a list of the “top 10 must reads” suggested by Richard Branson, so I ordered them all and I have started reading Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek.
What are you currently listening to?
Priscilla, Priscilla, Priscilla. I am in the thick of rehearsals at the moment, so my brain is in intense learning and retaining mode. Hence the soundtrack and rehearsal recordings are on loop at the moment.
Happiness is?
Happiness is different for different people. For me, it is ultimately being content with where I am now, acknowledging and appreciating all the amazing things and people I have in my life whilst also creating foundations and goals for the future. Being in a constant state of progression, of moving forward, makes me happiest. Also, good dark chocolate, hot chips and a damn good burger.
What does the future hold for you?
Doing eight shows a week of Priscilla for the next year in Australia. More world travel, which I have made a pact to continue exploring. Continuing to foster my career in my other home – NYC. Strengthening friendships and creating more genuine relationships. My future is one in which I continue growing and learning. Oh, and good dark chocolate, hot chips and burgers.
David stars as Tick in the 10th anniversary Australian tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical, which opens at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre later this month, before touring to Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. For more information, visit: www.priscillathemusical.com.au for details.
Image: David Harris (supplied)