Who is Emily Lambert?
Emily holds a Diploma and BA in Music Theatre from WAAPA. Recent roles include Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes, Wendy in Peter Pan, and the Blue Fairy in Pinocchio at The Regal. She’ll soon play Ali in Mamma Mia and Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I weren’t working in musical theatre, I’d love to teach outdoor education, work with lower primary students or in education support, or run a little café. I also have an ambition to be a Wiggle or appear in a Hi-5 reboot.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m incredibly lucky to have so many inspiring people in my life. Growing up in Falcon, I was surrounded by wonderful community theatre makers, including Karen Francis at Stray Cats Theatre Company and Carole Due at Primadonna Productions. I also performed with the Mandurah Concert Band, where I met Tony Schraven. These people, and so many others, encouraged me to dream big and believed in me at times when I needed it most.
In fact, I created my cabaret, Emily in Perth – This Is Me, as a memory and thank you to the people who helped shape me. It was my way of celebrating the people who gave me opportunities, encouraged me to take risks and helped me believe that a career in performing was possible. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them, and I hope I can be that same source of encouragement for someone else.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Oh, where do we start?! There are so many ways to make a difference, but I’d love to bring joy to children and families through performing. I think theatre and the arts are pretty magical. They can transport you somewhere completely different, make you laugh until you cry, or help you see the world through someone else’s eyes.
Life can be complicated, and if I can help someone forget their worries for an hour or two, leave a theatre feeling lighter, or inspire a young person to follow their own creative dreams, then I think that’s something pretty special. We’re so fortunate to have access to wonderful theatre here in WA, and I’d love to keep contributing to that magic for as long as I can.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere with a beautiful beach, a good hiking trail and a couple of days off! I love being outdoors, exploring somewhere new and getting a little bit of adventure into the mix. Add some good food and good company, and I’m happy!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Growing up in Falcon, I’d usually take friends on a little road trip to explore the Peel Region. We’d visit the Thrombolites at Lake Clifton and go hunting for some of the incredible Giants, scattered throughout the region.
The Thrombolites are fascinating, rare living rock-like structures, and Lake Clifton is one of the special places where you can see them. I love showing people the hidden gems of the area I grew up in. There’s so much more to WA than the places you see on a postcard, and I love being able to share a little piece of home with people.
What are you currently reading?
After spending the last few months with my head buried in scripts, I’m very excited to get stuck into some new books! I’ve just had a little stack arrive, including Make ‘Em Laugh and Unsinkable by Debbie Reynolds and Dorian Hannaway, Big Beautiful and Sexier by Casey Donovan, and Kids, Wait Till You Hear This! by Liza Minnelli.
There’s a lot of theatre history, larger-than-life personalities and showbiz stories in that pile, so I’m looking forward reading them.
What are you currently listening to?
The Toni and Ryan Podcast! Sometimes you need a break from music theatre playlists and a good dose of ridiculousness to get you through the day. They never disappoint. And an 80s playlist never goes astray.
Happiness is?
Good people, fresh air, a beautiful walk somewhere in nature and cooking a really good meal. I’m a big believer in finding joy in the little things. Give me a day outdoors followed by a delicious home-cooked dinner with people I love, and I’m pretty much set.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully, plenty of exciting projects, new adventures, big belly laughs and opportunities to keep creating. I want to keep learning, telling stories, meeting wonderful people and making memories that last long after the curtain comes down. If I can keep doing what I love, bring a little joy to other people and say yes to a few unexpected adventures along the way, I think the future looks pretty wonderful!
Emily stars as Kathy Selden in Singin’ in the Rain – which will be presented at the Koorliny Arts Centre (WA) from 20 – 28 November 2026. For more information, visit: www.koorliny.com.au for details.
Image: Emily Lambert (supplied)