On the Couch with Griffin McLaughlin

AAR-Griffin-McLaughlin-photo-by-Oliver-BerlinWho is Griffin McLaughlin?
I’m an emerging actor from nipaluna/Hobart currently performing in Past the Shallows for ATYP/Archipelago Productions.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
Be a little more patient with myself. I’m discovering that some things are a lot more gradual than I would have thought.

Who inspires you and why?
My older brother! He inspired me by telling me lots of stories when I was little. He continues to inspire me with his kindness towards others and he also makes me laugh a lot!

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m interested in learning how we can make the mental health system more accessible for young people, particularly in regional areas.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Probably East Coast Tassie. It’s a very beautiful stretch of coastline, lots of good camping spots and it’s got those cool orange lichen covered rocks.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Would have to be kunanyi/Mount Wellington. You get an incredible view of the city and maybe some snow!

What are you currently reading?
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk. It’s an interesting look at how trauma changes us and different strategies that we take to manage it.

What are you currently listening to?
Lots of music! At the moment I’m enjoying: 070 Shake, Run the Jewels and 88rising.

Happiness is?
Realising that you don’t feel like changing anything about the present moment.

What does the future hold for you?
I reckon seeking out more arts work and training experiences and trying to learn as much as I can from them. I’m also starting Uni next year doing a Diploma of Creative Arts and Health.


Griffin stars in Archipelago Productions and ATYP’s co-production of Past the Shallows by Julian Larnach (based on the novel by Favel Parrett) – which will be presented at The Rebel Theatre: 12 October – 9 November 2022. For more information, visit: www.atyp.com.au for details.

Image: Griffin McLaughlin – photo by Oliver Berlin