Who is James Bryers?
That’s a good question, one that I think grows and evolves all the time. BUT I’d say James Bryers is a son, grandson, brother, uncle and friend. I like to think I’m a bit like an onion with many layers… Hopefully one without the tears that come when you peel those layers back haha!
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I wasn’t working in musical theatre, I’d love to be someone who lived on a little self-sustainable plot of land, or a mini farm of sorts. Working the land, growing my own food, building things and painting. Not needing much, but always engaged in creating something.
Who inspires you and why?
There are many people who inspire me; both creatively and also in ways that make me want to be a better person. I’m fortunate to work with some of those people – being incredibly talented and also a lovely human being is quite a common thing in my workplace! I’m inspired by commitment, fierce tenacity, kindness, care, openness and truth in all areas, but I guess creatively, if someone can make me feel something by the way they deliver a line or in the way they portray a character, then I find that quite inspiring. It makes me want to be better at what I do.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Stand up for what I believe in, even in the face of adversity. There’s a lot of confusion and injustice out there, so I’m always going to try to fight for truth and justice. Sounds a bit cliche but it’s what I feel would make a difference in the world. So, I would love more, judge less, help others, and be a peacemaker.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’m easily pleased when it comes to holidaying! A tropical beach getaway has always been my favourite holiday destination, however a very recent trip to Arizona in the US during the height of a heatwave has challenged that. Jet skiing on Lake Powell and hiking the surrounding sandstone slot canyons was one of the coolest things I have ever done. I never thought I’d love the desert landscape as much as I do now. Ultimately though, give me some sun, a few adventures, relaxation time and good company, and I’m happy!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to and why?
If they’ve never been to Victoria, I’d always take them down the Great Ocean Road. So many things to see and do along the way. But it starts with driving through and showing off Melbourne city, then making our way down to the 12 Apostles and hopefully spotting some koalas along the way!
What are you currently reading?
I actually just finished reading a book called Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown. It explores the idea that by identifying the essential things in one’s life and finding clarity of focus, you can achieve more by doing less. Now I’ve got to find the next book to get stuck into!
What are you currently listening to?
On my way into work today I was listening to the score of the film HER by Arcade Fire and Owen Pallett. It’s all instrumental and quite melancholic. Beautiful listen.
Happiness is?
I’m going to botch this, but I heard it once somewhere and I actually think they were talking about love, but it just popped into my head when I read this question. It’s like when you’re driving and listening to the radio and you’re singing along and the radio cuts out a bit but you keep singing and when the music and reception finally comes back in and you and the music are still in sync… That feeling is happiness (love haha). I don‘t know, maybe that’s a silly way to describe it. Love and happiness to me are quite intertwined.
What does the future hold for you?
Who knows what’s next after Moulin Rouge! The Musical! I’ve recently got on the ‘manifesting’ bandwagon. So, I’m going to be doing a lot of praying and manifesting my way through the future! Watch this space.
James is currently starring as The Duke of Monroth in Moulin Rouge! The Musical – which is playing at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre until 31 December 2023. For more information, visit: www.moulinrougemusical.com for details.
Image: James Bryers (supplied)