Who is Elizabeth Hay?
I am an actor, who lives on unceded Kaurna land. I am emerging as a director. I look forward to being fully emerged one day.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
My “backup plan” if I didn’t get into drama school all those years ago was to do Law at uni. I still harbour that curiosity, but I am not sure how it effective it would be as a side hustle. One day maybe.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by so many people working in our industry. People that are clever, innovative and creative. What a joy and a privilege it is to work with people like that. Above all though, I am inspired by my little family.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I hope I already do what I can – I think if you can be generous with what you have, whether it’s time, money, energy, a kind word – that can make a difference to people.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My husband and I took a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia before we had our children, and we dine out on those memories to this day. We ate and drank so well. My brother was living in Ho Chi Minh City at the time, so we had local insights and got around on the back of motorbikes. One day we’ll go back with our kids. It was really special.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I am taking them somewhere on the Fleurieu Peninsula: world class wine and vineyards, incredible coastline and beaches, delicious food and the beautiful hills in the background. It’s seriously got everything and it’s only an hour south of Adelaide!
What are you currently reading?
Prima Facie by Suzie Miller – the novel adapted from her play of the same name.
What are you currently listening to?
KPop Demon Hunters! And whatever is on Radio National.
Happiness is?
Laughing with my kids.
What does the future hold for you?
The immediate future is filled with A Concise Compendium of Wonder and enjoying the Adelaide Festival and Fringe. Beyond that, who knows. Some development my own work, I hope.
Elizabeth can be seen in Slingsby Theatre Company’s triptych production, A Concise Compendium of Wonder – which will be presented at The Wandering Hall of Possibility – Adelaide Botanic Gardens, as part of the 2026 Adelaide Festival, from 18 February – 15 March.
Image: Elizabeth Hay – photo by Claudio Rachella