Who is Gabrielle Metcalf?
A director, an actor, a researcher and a lecturer, or if her mother is to be believed – ‘a bold article’.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Manage my time better. I say yes to everything and sometimes I run out of time to do all that I have promised. I hate letting people down.
Who inspires you and why?
Mary Parker Follett who was an American sociologist and Management consultant (1868 to 1933). Her theory relates to viewing diversity between people as an opportunity to integrate ideas and opinions and to come up with something that would not be possible individually. Her philosophy is central to a win-win style of human interaction.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Try and enact Follett’s philosophy so that differences of gender, race, religion and beliefs between people are embraced and not seen as a reason for conflict.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
India. I went backpacking around India when I was in my early 20s – I found a postcard with the words, “Not a bed of roses but what a bouquet of experience” on it. This described perfectly one of the most exhilarating holiday experiences of my life. But Rottnest Island is a destination the family and I return to every year – it’s so beautiful, no cars, sparkling water.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
A walk in the botanic gardens in King’s Park is pretty special, views of the city and the beautiful flora that makes up the gardens.
What are you currently reading?
Five Modern Noh Plays which I found in a bookshop in Southern China.
What are you currently listening to?
I am listening to the soundtrack from the French movie Amélie.
Happiness is?
Happiness is the act of creating. I feel very happy when I am in rehearsal, creating a play with people that I feel positively connected to.
What does the future hold for you?
I’ve just finished five years of research on directing, so hopefully in the future I will be able to apply my findings to my creative practice and direct shows that people want to watch.
Gabrielle directs Nicole Moeller’s award-winning drama, An Almost Perfect Thing at The Blue Room Theatre in an Australian premiere season from Thursday 10 August 2017. For more information, visit: www.blueroom.org.au for details.
Image: Gabrielle Metcalf (supplied)