Who is Imogen Sage?
A very existential person, so this question has already sent me spiralling. But… Imogen Sage is a curious, hedonistic explorer, who works as an actor, theatre-maker, and sometimes writer. Lived and trained in London for six years. Is always confused about where home is, but is feeling pretty content living on Gadigal Country, in the inner-west of Sydney at the moment. Wait till I’m unemployed and ask me that question again.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would like to try my hand at filmmaking. I love the intimacy of film and the visual and aural possibilities of storytelling. Right now I’m interested in films about desire, female relationships, sexual fluidity, love, and courageous acts of rebellion!
Who inspires you and why?
Adding on from the last question – the many incredible female-identifying filmmakers, including Céline Sciamma, Jane Campion, Andrea Arnold, Janicza Bravo, Claire Denis, Jennifer Kent, Chloé Zhao… And then in my own world, my friends, who are mostly teachers, child-care workers, actors and artists, all underpaid or over-worked, and who still manage to have a good sense of humour, be kind, and be hot. How!?
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Keep going to therapy. Keep reflecting on what it means to live on stolen land. Try to be braver. Speak up when I know I have to. Remind myself that art matters, even when it feels like silly, self-centred wankery, it’s really not. And shouldn’t be. Keep writing about love. Remain hopeful. Try to be kind. Breathe.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
The Top End. Or North Queensland. Anywhere hot, sweaty and full of delicious, frustratingly unswimmable coastal water.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Snorkelling in Gordon’s Bay. It’s like a shot from The White Lotus. The beauty of it hurts my brain.
What are you currently reading?
The news. And also, Things I Don’t Want to Know – Deborah Levy. But very slowly because I read about five books at the same time.
What are you currently listening to?
Big Thief’s latest album, Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You. And also, Complicite’s 12 part dramatisation for radio, The Dark is Rising. It’s excellent storytelling and I’m stealing some ideas for our show.
Happiness is?
Being surrounded by luxurious food. Friends can come too.
What does the future hold for you?
Let’s just get through the next week. But I’ll always be making stories, in whatever form they take.
Imogen can be seen in the premiere season of Darkness – a site-responsive experience at The Library (formerly the Newtown School of Arts Building). For more information, visit: www.experiencedarkness.com.au for details.
Image: Imogen Sage (supplied)