Who is James Hazelden?
I am an award-winning playwright and a non-award-winning director, musician and podcaster, from Melbourne. I wrote and directed Head | Thorax | Abdomen.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Well, if I’m doing something now then its effects probably haven’t been fully revealed so I have no real way to decide if I would choose to do it differently… oh wait. Probably answering this question. Yeah. Definitely should have thought of a better answer to this question. Sorry.
Who inspires you and why?
I love artists who find a way to bring their unique voices and talents to a range of different mediums, whether it is as a playwright, author, musician, painter or comedian. Their creativity always feels restless and crackly and excitingly unpredictable. It is a large list, but it would include Harold Pinter, Agatha Christie, Samuel Beckett, David Lynch, Maria Bamford, Tony Martin, Judith Lucy and Stewart Lee.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Nothing very grand I’m afraid. Every live theatrical performance is a one-of-a-kind, never to be repeated moment for the performers and the audience. It is the chance to stop looking at your phone for a bit and share something real with other people. I’m pretty good at creating these kinds of experiences and I’d love to be able to keep doing it for a while. I think it makes a difference.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I went to the Galapagos recently and swam with sharks and turtles and sea-lions. I saw whales and penguins. Not too shabby.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Melbourne has some wonderful cocktail bars hidden in some wonderful alleyways. Nothing better than a quiet, comfortable little place with an excellent martini, to properly catch up with a friend from out of town.
What are you currently reading?
Calcium Made Interesting – the sketches, letters and essays of Graham Chapman.
What are you currently listening to?
Music For Museum by Air.
Happiness is?
Showing someone I love, a movie that I love.
What does the future hold for you?
Writing more cool plays. And hang those who talk of fear. That last bit’s from Shakespeare. I Google’d it.
James is the Playwright of Head | Thorax | Abdomen – which will be presented at La Mama Courthouse from 8 – 26 April 2026. For more information, visit: www.lamama.com.au for details.
Image: James Hazelden (supplied)