On the Couch with Eleanor MacIntyre

Eleanor-MacIntyre-AAR-On-the-CouchWho is Eleanor MacIntyre?
Sometimes I think I know, but most of the time my head is too busy catching up with whatever it is my heart desires. I believe I live a pretty fast paced and full life and what makes me, me is simply revelling in this ridiculously crazy, scary and beautiful world. I am but a cute little product of my surroundings.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
Study environmental science or marine biology, live in a van and/or boat and travel the world. In order to help small communities and do my part to slow down the effects of Climate Change. I also think if I magically grew a few inches, I’d be playing Volleyball for New Zealand.

Who inspires you and why?
I draw my inspiration from the people closest to me – my friends, my classmates, my colleagues. Seeing the people I care most about achieve what they want, take an opportunity or overcome an obstacle no matter how minor, is the most uplifting and invigorating thing. They spur me on within my craft and even more so in my day-to-day life.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
In a biggest way, help slow down Climate Change. But I also believe that simple acts of kindness and compassion can change the world and that’s what I try to do every day. And of course, make art and theatre to evoke positive change.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
The Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort! In the middle of the Great Barrier Reef, you can stroll around it in 40 minutes, it has the most breathtaking coral and every kind of marine wildlife you can think of. I love it because of its simplicity, serenity and because the resort uses 100% renewable energy and is completely sustainable, it allows you to experience the wonders around you knowing that you’re also looking after them.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Food, food and more food – quite literally what Melbourne does best. I’d take them for a very carefully put together op-shop tour that I’ve personally done about once a week since moving to Melbourne. And the State Library has never failed to impress.

What are you currently reading?
Personally, I’m not much of a reader unless its research for a character/show, but I do consistently read my horoscope. Being a Scorpio is challenging at the best of times, so a helping hand from Co-Star never hurts (everyone should get the app).

What are you currently listening to?
Currently, I’m loving Mndsgn, Hiatus Kayote, Nai Palm, Badbadnotgood, a bit of Carole King, and I will always listen to Sticky Fingers. Their music will forever be my guilty pleasure.

Happiness is?
So hard to define and too hard to pin down. Happiness, or more like JOY is finding light in the difficult moments and leading life with as much heart as possible. It’s also finding comfort in the fact, that you will never miss out on something that’s meant for you.

What does the future hold for you?
I hope many great moments, meeting amazing new people, seeing the world, and experiencing as much as humanly possible. But then again, who knows? I’m just happy to be here for the ride.


Eleanor stars as Rachel in Friends! The Musical Parody – which plays Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from 23 November 2022. For more information, visit: www.friendsmusical.com.au for details.

Image: Eleanor MacIntyre (supplied)