On the Couch with David Morton

David-Morton-AAR-On-the-CouchWho is David Morton?
David is a writer and director living on Yuggera and Turrbal land with his husband who gets to come to work each day with his favourite people in a dream workshop next to Queensland’s oldest theatre.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
I honestly can’t imagine working in any other field.

Who inspires you and why?
I am constantly inspired by my peers and colleagues working in the performing arts. At the best of times, it’s a slog of almost insurmountable proportions… the last two years of the pandemic have been something else, and have generated some of the most incredible innovation and ingenuity, as well as a healthy dose of having each other’s backs.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot recently. I think it comes down to choices, and regardless of where you sit, to make choices out of hope for how things might turn out, rather than fear for what might go wrong.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
The South Island of New Zealand. I just can’t deal with the natural beauty and the fresh air.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
D’Aguilar National Park, because we’re so lucky to have such stunning bush so close to the city.

What are you currently reading?
The Binding by Bridget Collins. It’s my third re-read. This book is a gob smacker.

What are you currently listening to?
We have a shared speaker in our workshop, which keeps things eclectic. Regular features at the moment include Harry Styles, Francis and the Lights, and The Oh Hellos.

Happiness is?
Being surrounded by amazing people with a common goal.

What does the future hold for you?
I hope it holds a lot more making, and deepening collaborations with our team.


David is the Director and Co-Designer of Dead Puppet Society’s critically acclaimed production of The Wider Earth – which plays the Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba (Brisbane) from 5 – 19 February 2022 – ahead of a national Australian tour. For more information and tour schedule, visit: www.deadpuppetsociety.com.au for details. Checkout the trailer here!

Image: David Morton (supplied)