Who is Ella Roth Barton?
I’m a Melbourne-based writer and actor who works in children’s television development, financing and distribution. I’m currently preparing for the premiere of our show WellBless – co-created and written with the inimitable Debra Thomas – at Theatre Works in St Kilda.
What would you do diferently to what you do now?
I really love what I do now – children’s television is going through a lot in Australia and as a country we are creating some truly world-class content. So, it’s an exciting place to be and feels really valuable to contribute to the younger generation’s cultural identity by letting all children see themselves on screen. Eventually I would love to create my own television series, as a showrunner. Perhaps WellBless could be adapted into a series? But that’s a while away!
Who inspires you and why?
People like Michaela Coel, Fran Drescher and Helen Mirren; creative women who are unapologetically themselves in the spotlight and are not afraid to speak their truths.
What would you do to make a diference in the world?
Oh gosh, where to start with this? There are lots of things; reducing my plastic usage, working with rescue animals, being an ally for social change, shopping locally and ethically… I think just trying to be a conscious, mindful and compassionate human being at the end of the day.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
That’s easy – Japan, for its natural beauty, lushness, tradition vs modernity, incredible sophistication, and delicious food. I will be back there in a heartbeat once we are able to travel again.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Safety Beach on the Mornington Peninsula. My family has a little old beach box there – sitting on the deck having a picnic lunch is heaven on a clear day. We’ve hosted friends and visitors from all over the world, and everyone is blown away by how simple and stunning a place it is.
What are you currently reading?
Circe by Madeline Miller. I can highly recommend it!
What are you currently listening to?
A mix of mid-00s, angsty indie songs. I feel transported back to my teenage years (and I really don’t know why I chose to do that to myself!) The nostalgia is real!
Happiness is?
Just sitting in my garden with a cup of tea and my dogs, watching the world go by. Maybe with some chocolate too.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully more of the same!
Ella Roth Barton has co-created and written (with Debra Thomas) and performs in the World Premiere season of WellBless at Theatre Works: 1 – 11 December 2021. For more information, visit: www.theatreworks.org.au for details.
Image: Ella Roth Barton – photo by Luke Lennox