Who is Jake Fehily?
Me! I’m Jake Fehily! I currently spend most of my time playing Augustus Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’d likely be using my skills as a performer and a musician to help other people. I’d love to be a Captain Starlight and work with children in hospitals. I’d also really like to be a music therapist one day. To help people with special needs by engaging them with music is a big dream of mine. I think I would have a food blog on the side too. Food makes me very, very happy!
Who inspires you and why?
I feel like I can’t pinpoint just one person who inspires me. I think I admire lots of different people for many reasons. Creatively, I admire Tim Minchin as someone who has used his skills as a comedian and musician to create a career that is uniquely him. I admire political figures like Michelle Obama, Gough Whitlam and Penny Wong as people who use their voices selflessly to improve the lives of others. They’re all also such down to earth people. I’m also inspired by my family and my girlfriend as people who are passionate about what they do but who also use their skills to help others. All of these people inspire me to be lots of things. They make me want to be smart, strong, kind, confident, caring.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Recognise the fullness and importance of each individual. I would like to work create a society where everyone sees each other as important and valued equally. I want to use my passions for music and comedy to make people feel happy and connected.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
New York. The bagels, musicals, pizza, comedy, live music. Did I mention the bagels?
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
South Melbourne Market. It’s such a great cultural spot in Melbourne. Authentic foods from lots of cuisines… Turkish, Spanish, Chinese and so many more. Really nice for a relaxing walk (and lunch).
What are you currently reading?
Mythos: The Greek Myths Retold by Stephen Fry. Chronicles lots of Greek mythology in a really understandable and funny way. Really incredible stories about love, sex, death, revenge and passion.
What are you currently listening to?
Beyoncé, Homecoming – best live album I’ve ever heard.
Happiness is?
Going to the movies and adding Maltesers to my popcorn.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m not really sure at the moment. I hope to do lots of different and exciting things. And for the moment I’m quite happy to be surprised by what the future holds.
Jake stars as Augustus Gloop in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne from 9 August 2019 (opening night: 15 August). For more information, visit: www.charliethemusical.com.au for details.
Image: Jake Fehily (supplied)