Who is Dushan Philips?
I often find myself referring to myself as an International Nomad but I’m as confused by the question as I am by the answer. I am a hider and a seeker. I’m a flawed human with Utopic hopes. Doctors save lives, Artists save souls. I’m of the universe, by the universe and for the universe.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I don’t have many regrets but I would have loved to learn to play an instrument and sing professionally. I think I belong in the Arts.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by Tupac Shakur, Mahatma Gandhi and Marlon Brando for different reasons. Tupac achieved everything that he did and died at the age of 25. A revolutionary who literally came out of the ghetto. A rose through the concrete. Gandhi through non-violence was able to oust the Colonial rulers out of his country. And what Marlon Brando did for acting was nothing shy of extra-ordinary. He also used his fame to shine light on issues that weren’t getting attention. He gave back his Academy Award after shedding light on the plight of the Native American people.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
As Artists we have an immense responsibility to use our medium for lasting change towards a better place. Our currency is ‘connection’ and we live in a disconnected world. That means we can do something about it. I’d like to work out just how possible it is to ‘weaponise’ so that it can move the masses.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
India. It’s the spiritual home of the world. Everything else is just an extension of it.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
In summer, on a hot day, I would take them to Pound Bend River for a 4 hour float around the Yarra. In winter, Mt Hotham and the snow ranges would be a treat.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading Marina Abramovic’s memoir, Walk Through Walls.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently listening to silence.
Happiness is?
Happiness is… the recognition that all things are impermanent and that we are balls of unrealised clusters of stardust floating through space suspended in a sunbeam.
What does the future hold for you?
A revolution where Artists matter, Science leads, Technology serves, Religion loves and politicians administrate… Shut-up and give them a less idealistic response Dushan… Okay fine! The future is an illusion and I only want to be of service to the present. There!
Dushan features in the world premiere season of Keziah Warner’s Control at Red Stitch Actors Theatre from 9 October 2019. For more information, visit: www.redstitch.net for details.
Image: Dushan Philips (supplied)