Who is Keanu Gonzalez?
Keanu Gonzalez is a passionate theatre artist whose love for the stage is matched only by his appreciation for the world beyond it. While performing is at the heart of his life, he finds joy and balance in a variety of hobbies that allow him to explore different sides of himself. An avid outdoorsman, Keanu enjoys the tranquility and patience of fishing, relishing the peaceful moments by the water as much as the thrill of the catch.
He also embraces the freedom of movement, whether it’s gliding through city streets on his rollerblades or pushing himself to new limits in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a discipline that challenges both his body and mind. When he’s not immersed in theatre or physical pursuits, Keanu enjoys unwinding with video games and movies, appreciating the artistry and storytelling that these mediums offer.
His love for adventure extends to the open road, where he finds exhilaration in riding his motorbike, feeling the rush of the wind as he explores new landscapes. Whether on stage, in nature or engaging in his many interests, Keanu embraces life with passion, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for both the arts and the world around him.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
If I weren’t in theatre, I’d probably dive into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It requires focus, strategy and constant improvement. I love the idea of pushing myself to learn new techniques and grow in a way that’s always evolving. It’s not just about physical skill but also mental toughness, and that’s something I really admire about the sport.
Who inspires you and why?
I really admire underdogs – those who beat the odds and push through challenges most people never have to face. There’s something powerful about seeing someone stick with it and succeed, no matter what’s in their way. Athletes like Michael Jordan, who got cut from his high school basketball team but ended up being one of the greatest ever, really show what that spirit is all about.
Serena Williams is another one – she broke barriers in tennis and crushed it despite facing a ton of adversity. Then there’s Charles Oliveira, who was written off in the UFC after a rough start, only to become a world champion through pure determination. These people prove that greatness isn’t just about natural talent—it’s about grit, resilience, and pushing through when others would give up. That’s the kind of spirit that really inspires me.
What would you do to make a difference in this world?
I might not be the one making huge, dramatic changes in the world, but I don’t think impact has to be that big to matter. Sometimes, change happens in the quiet moments—through inspiration, storytelling or just how we choose to live.
When I step on stage, it’s about more than just performing. I want to spark something in the audience, especially younger people, that encourages them to chase their own passions and creativity, just like I have. Theatre is all about sharing emotions, opening up new perspectives, and inspiring dreams.
If even one person in the audience feels a little more motivated to follow their own artistic path or believe in themselves, then I consider that a win. Art has the power to inspire, and if I can play a small part in that, it makes my time on stage feel even more meaningful.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favourite holiday spot is definitely the Philippines, especially Boracay. It’s the first place I ever went on vacation with my family, and since I have relatives there, it always feels like a special reunion with my Filipino roots. But Boracay means even more to me now.
In 2023, my brother and I went back to scatter our dad’s ashes on the beach, fulfilling his final wish. He was born in the Philippines and absolutely loved Boracay, so doing that for him was really special to both of us. Now whenever I visit, it’s not just about the beautiful beach – it’s about honouring my dad’s memory and reconnecting with family. Boracay isn’t just a destination for me; it’s a place full of love, memories, and meaning.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to and why?
Whenever friends come to town, the first place I’m taking them is the beach – specifically Gordon’s Bay. It’s my go-to spot, a peaceful little getaway where I can relax, whether I’m with friends or just need to clear my head. The sound of the waves and how quiet the bay is makes it feel like my own personal retreat. It’s perfect for swimming and just enjoying the natural beauty of the coast.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading The Outsiders, and it all started after I heard the soundtrack from the Broadway production. The music got me curious about the story, so I decided to check out the novel. Now that I’m reading it, I totally get why it’s been such a classic for so long.
S.E. Hinton’s exploration of identity, belonging, and the divide between social classes still feels so relevant today. It’s cool to see how the story has evolved across literature, film, and theatre, and I’m loving experiencing it in its original form.
What are you currently listening to?
I went to the opening night of MJ the Musical on March 8, and it was amazing. The performances were on point, and the way they celebrated Michael Jackson’s artistry was incredible. Since then, his music has made a major comeback in my playlist. I’ve been rediscovering his hits, and it’s reminding me just how timeless and innovative his sound really is. The show definitely reignited my love for his work, and now I can’t stop listening!
Happiness is?
Happiness means a lot of different things to me. It’s not just one feeling but a mix of moments and experiences that make life feel full. Family is a huge part of it—there’s nothing like the love and support I get from my loved ones. Gratitude plays a big role too, taking time to appreciate the small things and remembering how lucky we are.
Friends bring a whole different kind of joy, with their laughter and shared memories. And community is important too, whether it’s with a group of people who share similar interests or just feeling part of something bigger. There’s also travel, creativity, personal growth, and those quiet moments of reflection. Happiness isn’t just a single thing – it’s all those little pieces coming together to make life meaningful.
What does the future hold for you?
For the next year, I’m all about Annie, and I’m really looking forward to what’s coming. After that, though, who knows? The future’s a bit of a mystery, and while that can be a little intimidating, it’s also what I love about this industry. The unpredictability makes it so exciting – you never know what’s around the corner.
Like everyone else, I’ve got dreams and ideas of where I want to go, but I’ve learned not to hold onto them too tightly. The future could bring something totally unexpected, or maybe even something better than I imagined. For me, it’s not just about the destination; it’s the journey. Every new twist keeps things fresh and motivating, and that’s what keeps me excited to see what’s next.
Keanu stars as Rooster Hannigan in the Australian production of ANNIE – which plays Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from 25 March, before playing Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 10 July 2025. For more information, visit: www.anniemusical.com.au for details.
Image: Keanu Gonzalez (supplied)