Who is Ethan Vijn?
Hi I’m Ethan. I’m 21 years old and I’m from a tiny town called Marlow in the United Kingdom. I graduated from Masters Performing Arts College in Essex, and since then I have been performing in The Choir Of Man onboard the NCL Escape cruising around the Caribbean for 7 months.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
When I was younger I really wanted to be a chef. I would spend hours in the kitchen learning from my Mum trying to cook. But I realised I was better at burning the food than cooking it so I don’t think it would’ve worked out well!
Who inspires you and why?
Someone who really inspires me is my older brother Jay. He started performing at a young age. I would grow up watching him on the stage and always aspiring to be like him. So he’s the reason that I started taking up dance classes. He inspires me on a day to day basis. Not just as a performer but also as an amazing and kind person.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d really like to see theatre become more accessible so that everyone can enjoy it. I’d love to see more young people get into performing. I’d also like to see the stigma about boys dancing at a young age stop as its something that has affected me a lot growing up. I feel that a lot of boys have stopped doing what they love because of that.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
One of my favourite holiday destinations has to be New York. I’ve been very fortunate to travel to New York a few times during my time with The Choir of Man on Norwegian Cruise Lines. Our ship would dock into Manhattan every Sunday for 12 weeks. I love a New York bagel and coffee in the morning. It’s the best start to the day.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
To be honest there is not much to do in Marlow so I’d have to say go for a walk along the river and stop off at the Bounty, which is a pub on the river and have a few drinks there.
What are you currently reading?
During the cruise I was re reading the entire Harry Potter series and I am currently up to Order of the Phoenix but it’s such a long book, it’s taking me a long time.
What are you currently listening to?
My music taste changes all the time but currently I am loving listening to The 1975 and Tom Misch.
Happiness is?
For me happiness is cups of teas with my Mum or going on walks with my Dad. It’s surrounding yourself with people who you are truly comfortable to be your true self. It’s listening to your favourite song in the car. It’s jumping into the sea on a hot day. I find happiness very hard to describe but doing what ever makes you smile is the best feeling.
What does the future hold for you?
After doing The Choir Of Man in Melbourne, I will be heading back home to the UK trying to find performing work back over there. I am loving doing this show, so I hope that doesn’t end soon.
Ethan can be seen in The Choir of Man – which is currently playing at Arts Centre Melbourne until 11 February 2024. For more information, visit: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au for details.
Image: Ethan Vijn – photo by Andy Brown Photography