Who is Karen Vickery?
Karen Vickery is an actor, director and acting teacher. She is a director of an independent theatre in Canberra, ACT Hub. Karen graduated from NIDA in 1983. She taught at NIDA for 14 years before moving to Canberra.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I could turn back time and advise my younger self, I’d be more unashamedly true to myself as an actor. It’s taken many years to learn not to try to please others but to please myself. Being in my 60s is liberating!
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by people who dare to make mistakes and who aren’t afraid to look foolish.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Gosh! How would I make a difference in the world? I’m just a tiny cog in the big wheel! I think I can only influence my small sphere through supporting and encouraging talent and integrity where I see it. Cheering the good ones on and helping where I can. And sometimes, calling out bullshit.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favourite holiday destination is anywhere that I can be with my two wonderful adult children.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
When friends come to town I’d take them to the National Portrait Gallery which is a jewel in the crown of cultural institutions and I’d take them to see anything showing at ACT Hub!
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading King Lear and actors’ reminiscences around playing Lear. I’m playing Lear at The Q (Queanbeyan) at the end of 2023. I’m also reading an extraordinary novel by Olga Tokarczuk called Flights.
What are you currently listening to?
I listen to Classic FM. Anything else jangles me. I love all kinds of live music but as a background to living, I’m an ABC Classic FM person.
Happiness is?
Happiness is an harmonious, hilarious, and creative rehearsal room and dinner with friends and family.
What does the future hold for you?
The future? More of the marvellous freedom that comes to women in their 60s! It’s just great and I love it. Like returning to my 20s without the angst.
Karen can be seen in URINETOWN The Musical – which is currently playing at Sydney’s Hayes Theatre until 5 February 2023. For more information, visit: www.hayestheatre.com.au for details.
Image: Karen Vickery (supplied)