Who is Elvy-Lee Quici?
I’m Elvy-Lee. I’m an Italian Vietnamese Australian actor, performer, writer, maker and musician from Adelaide. Since graduating from Flinders Drama Centre in 2022 with a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Honours), I have worked with State Theatre Company South Australia, OzAsia Festival, Contemporary Asian Australian Performance (CAAP), Theatre Republic, SA Playwrights Theatre, Infinity ensemble (Melbourne), ActNow Theatre, and now Windmill Production Company.
On the other hand, I’m also a sassy, dramatic but silly Scorpio girl, big matcha fan, and a passionate foodie – I should honestly be a food critic.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Ever since I was a little girl I’d always say to my parents, “I want to be a singer, dancer, and an actor!” – in that order. So maybe I’d try to pursue one of the other two (in my next life). I did contemplate being a psychologist or a counsellor, because I think I’m naturally inquisitive and I just love getting into the nitty gritty bit of things, and talking about intense stuff.
Who inspires you and why?
Live theatre is probably my top and most visceral source of inspiration, and oftentimes it reignites my love for certain ideas and hobbies. Music as well. I feel it connects me to something other worldly in my mind. But I always find myself inspired by those close around me, like my fellow peers, young artists, friends or family. I get a boost of motivation when I see someone thriving doing what they love, like if someone is performing or writing music, or when you see someone doing whatever it takes to pursue their passion.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Boy, what wouldn’t I do. There are so many things I wish I could do and solve by the click of my fingers. In a granular sense, and in my capacity, I naturally want to bring joy and laughter to people. I really do believe laughter is the best medicine, it’s so incredibly healing. Since I’m quite a silly, lighthearted and optimistic being, there is something so rewarding about making someone laugh. Laughing, to me, feels like everything in life is good and okay.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love going back to the motherland – Vietnam – because it’s always been like a second home to me. I feel free there, and this feeling seems to always increase each time I go back. There is something in the air over there – or maybe it’s just the humidity, but I’m constantly in awe of my surroundings and there’s always something new for me to discover and unlock. I’ve been really lucky to travel there as much as I have throughout my life. It’s a distinct feeling going back to the place where my mum and family come from.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
You can’t beat going to the beach in the summer. South Australia undoubtedly has some of the best beaches. You have to do the whole shebang: set up some shade, have a dip, make a little picnic, and get some ice cream afterwards. That’s the life. I went to Moana beach for the first time the other day and it looked straight out of a postcard. In the winter, I’d take them to my favourite Phở spot.
What are you currently reading?
I’m super excited – I’ve just started reading The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. Also, Mel Robbins’ The Let Them Theory had me highlighting the book like MAD. Love a self-help book.
What are you currently listening to?
On repeat: The Art of Loving by Olivia Dean, LUX by ROSALíA, and not to mention Folded by Kehlani had me in a chokehold for the longest time. Now that it’s summer – a lot of reggaeton, Carlos Santana, and Greta Van Fleet is my jam.
Happiness is?
Nothing beats when my food craving is fulfilled. I love to eat, it’s not funny. That’s astral projection right there.
What does the future hold for you?
In the immediate future, Mama Does Derby! We hit the stage in Sydney before returning home to Adelaide in February. Beyond that, I’ve got no clue. It’s scary not knowing the future, especially in those grace periods where nothing is really happening.
I know that I want to keep working joyfully, exploring my craft, and getting into some screen work. Put me on a TV show! Somebody! I also want to get back to playing music and singing more. I love connecting with people, and I’m excited to explore and learn about myself in the years to come, but also cherish everything. I do believe in wishful thinking, and manifesting can make dreams come true.
Elvy-Lee stars as Billie in the world premiere season of Windmill Production Company’s Mama Does Derby – which is currently playing at the Sydney Town Hall, as part of the 2026 Sydney Festival, until 22 January; before playing at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre Theatre, as part of the 2026 Adelaide Festival, from 27 February – 8 March.
Image: Elvy-Lee Quici stars as Billie in Mama Does Derby – photo by Bri Hammond