Who is Hayden Tee?
Hayden Tee is a proud Takatapui Maori performer, director and makeup artist.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t change much in my life but when I’m not performing I can be found living in my own tiny house on 2 acres that I built during the pandemic. I’m excited for my time in Adelaide at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival this year, it will be like re-entering civilisation in the most fabulous way.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by family, friends, colleagues, trailblazers. Nigel Ubrihien my Musical Director, orchestrator and friend of almost 20 years. Constantly inspiring to me.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I try to make a difference every day in the world by leading with love and lifting others up. There is enough success in the world for everyone so share it and lift others up.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love to go anywhere I can experience great thought-provoking theatre and/or music. My favourite holiday destination so far was Prague in Czech Republic, there was something about the Gothic mystique of the place that really made an impact.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I live 7 minutes from stunning Uretiti beach and 25 mins from the amazing Waipu caves. That’s a glorious day right there in either order with an ice cream in between. When friends are in town that’s my go to. It’s nature at its finest.
What are you currently reading?
I’m waiting for my copy of Geraldine Turner’s new autobiography Turner’s Turn to arrive.
What are you currently listening to?
Brendan Maclean, everything he has ever written or recorded. Brendan is appearing at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and I highly recommend, a truly mesmerizing performer. World class.
Happiness is?
Success. Success comes in lots of ways, but I get the most satisfaction from achieving goals from small to big.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m performing my show Bad Guy at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, Dunstan Playhouse on 19 June and then directing the Australian professional premiere production of Jekyll and Hyde at the Hayes theatre in Sydney starring Brendan Maclean in the title roles.
Image: Hayden Tee – photo by Kurt Sneddon