Who is Ian Stenlake?
Ian Stenlake is a Preacher’s kid who loves doing cryptic crosswords. A keen musician who has dabbled in acting both before and after graduating from NIDA in the 90’s.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’m also a nurses kid. I have been fascinated with medicine from a very early age. My mum thought I would be wasting my life if I didn’t become a paediatric surgeon.
Who inspires you and why?
My best friend inspires me! She’s stoic, heroic and by example reminds me to live in the moment with gratitude and happiness.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I could somehow remind everybody that life really is a miracle-we are all miracles and interconnected and if this could lead to the world being a far more peaceful place. One race, the human race.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Bali holds a special place in my heart particularly when you tap into the laid back, stress free aspects. No problems-just relax.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would send my friends to my mate’s guest house in King Lake. It’s called Paradiso King Lake and as the name suggests is a touch of paradise just outside of Melbourne where you can go to relax.
What are you currently reading?
I find it hard to read when I am rehearsing a play but most recently I enjoyed Ken Follett’s Century Trilogy books: Fall of Giants; Winter of the World; Edge of Eternity.
What are you currently listening to?
Two of my great friends are getting married, so I am being bombarded with a playlist for their ceremony which I’m pleased to announce includes Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and the theme from The Muppet Show!
Happiness Is?
Happiness is looking deeply into your lover’s eyes and really ‘seeing’ them and knowing that they feel the same way about you. That’s what I call a ‘Stulley’ moment.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m hoping the future holds a lot more performing and acting for me for this is when I feel most exhilarated and I know this will be balanced with awesome family time for this is when I am truly happy.
Ian will be appearing in Around the World in 80 Days at The Alex Theatre, St. Kilda: 23 August – 4 September 2016, before touring to Geelong Performing Arts Centre (14 – 17 September); Mooroolbark Community Centre (21 September); and Whitehorse Centre (23 September). For more information, visit: www.aroundtheworldin80days.com.au for details.
Image: Ian Stenlake