Who is Graham Coupland?
An ex-Sydneysider who migrated South to embrace the food, wine and arts culture of Melbourne. And when not eating, drinking and working, occasionally likes to play guitar with his Swing Band – The Velvet Set, run 1930’s style speakeasy events such as the Gangsters’ Ball, and indulge his love of Steampunk and Gothic fashion as features heavily in his new show – The Carnival of Lost Souls.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’ve made some awful mistakes in life, but they’ve shaped who I am and what I’ve achieved (or haven’t achieved) so I’m focusing now on being ‘wiser’ rather than just being ‘smarter’.
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone who actually ‘does’ – rather than says ‘I could have done that…’
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’d bring everyone, from every culture together, regardless of skin colour, creed AND religious belief, to shake hands, share a smile and a laugh. Hopefully then we’d have more compassion, understanding and respect, and a whole lot less xenophobia, fear and violence.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
To date it’s a tie between New York & Paris as I love the culture, architecture and vibe of those cities, although Japan and the Maldives loom large on the ‘must-do’ list.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Usually it’s a lap of the ‘Bermuda triangle’ as I call it – Comprising of Smith, Gertrude and Brunswick Streets, Fitzroy. A Saturday lunch at Claypots, St Kilda for great seafood and to catch Elvis and his 3-piece band live is a must.
What are you currently reading?
Neverwhere – Neil Gaiman, Under the Dome – Stephen King
What are you currently listening to?
Radiohead – Moon Shaped Pool, and the Carnival of Lost Souls soundtrack…
Happiness is?
Sipping the perfect dry gin martini or super strong soy latte.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully international success with the Carnival of Lost Souls. Ideally a Spiegeltent somewhere in New York, with the show playing 7 nights a week. That’s just for starters…
The Carnival of Lost Souls plays at The Melba Spiegeltent: 11 & 12 November 2016. For more information, visit: www.carnivaloflostsouls.com for details.
Image: Graham Coupland