On the Couch with Kirby Burgess

Kirby-Burgess-AAR-On-the-CouchWho is Kirby Burgess?
That’s a loaded question – I am an actor, singer, dancer, daughter, sister, friend, seamstress, carpenter… depends on the day. But today I am Kathryn Merteuil in Cruel Intentions: the ’90s Musical.

What would you do differently from what you do now?
Make more clothes, build more furniture, learn more creative skills because it feeds my soul.

Who inspires you and why?
I recently visited the Gabrielle Chanel exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria. I am inspired by her determination – her vision that was an evolving aesthetic which wove through such a distinctive and dark era. Her designs and scents pioneered a new strength and shape for women which gave ladies a sense of power and freedom. I’m inspired by the legacy she built. To me, the brand Coco Chanel is the epitome of elegance.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Oh goodness, there really are so many things we should be doing better. Equality for gender/race/sexuality, eliminating plastics… or just taking better care of our planet in general… I live through kindness the best I can whilst always open to further my education in caring for the planet and all its beings.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Italy. I love the language, I love the people and I absolutely loved the trip I took a few years back. Each town/city brings a different experience all of which are a complete joy.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Food… it’s always about the food.

What are you currently reading?
Just Kids – Patti Smith.

What are you currently listening to?
Greenlights – Matthew McConaughey audio book. Completely entertaining.

Happiness is?
Brunch.

What does the future hold for you?
I will be touring with Cruel Intentions: the ’90s Musical for the rest of the year. After that… spend as much time with friends and family until the next adventure whisks me away.


Kirby stars as Kathryn Merteuil in Cruel Intentions: the ’90s Musical – which opens at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre from Friday 27 May, before playing Sydney’s State Theatre from 30 June, Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall from 27 July, Adelaide’s Her Majesty’s Theatre from 8 September, and the Canberra Theatre Centre from 5 October 2022. For more information, visit: www.cruelintentions.com.au for details.

Image: Kirby Burgess (supplied)