Who is James Pratt?
I am a 44-year-old conductor and arts professional, husband and father. My career highlights have taken place in big cities around the world, but my most treasured memories are of small towns and family gatherings in regional South Australia where I grew up.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would live in or near a country town. I already have too much variety in my professional life to even fantasise about another profession.
Who inspires you and why?
As an arts administrator and performer, I get to speak regularly with people who buy season tickets, or never miss a concert. These dedicated consumers of arts and culture inspire me.
I recently shared a table in a theatre bar with an older couple prior to a show. They had travelled some distance to attend a performance, and don’t get to the theatre often.
They had been long-term foster parents, raising countless children from infancy. The couple were looking forward to immersing themselves in theatre for the evening. I am inspired to give people like these, a fantastic night in the theatre.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Together with my wife, the little difference we try to make is to raise our son to be the best person he can be.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Holidays in Greece with family is top of the list. I can’t fault the beautiful islands, beaches and cuisine.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
In South Australia I like to take visitors on a hop-on, hop-off whirlwind tour of the McLaren Vale, the Barossa Valley, the Clare Valley and the Yorke Peninsula where my family have been farmers for generations.
What are you currently reading?
Lessons in Chemistry, The Daily Stoic, and music scores.
What are you currently listening to?
The Rest Is History, John le Carré audio books, and the Mozart Requiem.
Happiness is?
Morning coffee with my wife Anna and our son, just after he sings the morning coffee song.
What does the future hold for you?
After conducting Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance for Victorian Opera, I’ll return to work with West Australian Opera to promote a year of fabulous operas. I’m also conducting Gilbert and Sullivan concerts and Handel’s Messiah at His Majesty’s Theatre in Perth.
James conducts The Pirates of Penzance for Victorian Opera at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda, from 31 January to 6 February 2026. For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.victorianopera.com.au for details.
Image: James Pratt – courtesy of Victorian Opera