Who is Katie Henry?
Katie is 38 year old woman who directs plays, teaches and coaches creatives. A fierce feminist and believer in best practice. She also believes that vulnerability is where the magic happens. Katie was born in Gloucestershire, the South West of England, and now lives in London. She is lucky enough to have travelled to many far flung extraordinary places. She loves theatre and believes in its power to change hearts and minds.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I don’t think I would! I love my job and feel so grateful to be doing it. I guess I would love to run a theatre one day, to be in a creative leadership role and to make theatre I believe in.
Who inspires you and why?
So many people – aren’t people incredible! To name a few – Michelle Obama for role modelling such awesome female strength and power, Brene Brown for her work in vulnerability and shame, my wonderful friends for always showing up in life – even when it’s really hard.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would hope to inspire others to go for the dreams, and to dream big! I think fear and shame holds people back and a wasted life devastates me.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Vietnam because it is beautiful and has so much to see and do, and the people are wonderfully welcoming.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I take them to see whatever is playing at the National Theatre – you can always guarantee quality theatre there. Particular recent favourite was The Secret River – which transferred from Australia. It is one of my favourite books by Kate Grenville and is such an important story. I also love the Shard! So often take friends up there to see the view across London.
What are you currently reading?
I always have quite a few on the go – currently Three Women by Lisa Taddeo and Women and Power: A Manifesto by Mary Beard.
What are you currently listening to?
I love an audiobook or podcast – currently Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis, and in terms of music – Lizzo!
Happiness is?
Sipping a glass of champagne whilst seated looking at the sea, toes in the sand.
What does the future hold for you?
So many wonderful things I hope! I am planning some exciting theatre projects and my work as a coach is taking off. I am yet to have my own family so I hope that is on the horizon. I am also in the process of buying a flat, so it’s all go.
Katie is the UK & International tour director of War Horse – which plays Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from 10 January, before heading to the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 15 February and Crown Theatre, Perth from 24 March 2020. For more information, visit: www.warhorseonstage.com.au for details.
Image: Katie Henry – photo by Ellie Kurttz