Who is Kristen Smyth?
Kristen Smyth, artist, performer and Londoner in Melbourne
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would be more willing to listen and seek out the people who love me
Who inspires you and why?
Kae Tempest for their eloquence and refusal to be anything but honest
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m doing it. Loving an authentic life and showing others it’s possible to be free from fear. That’s what has set me free.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
For all its ugliness London still remains my holiday destination of choice. I need to breathe the air of the Tube station and fed the violence of thousands of angry footsteps on the streets coming at me at a rush. I know I’m alive when I’m back in London.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to,and why?
The coffee shops of course and then the botanic gardens and then St Kilda. There’s something of London in the air around here and of course there’s a beach!
What are you currently reading?
David Foster Wallace’s Infinite Jest – I’ve got a very long operation and rest time coming up so I’m hopeful I can finish it this time!
What are you currently listening to?
Placebo’s Never Let Me Go – a very surprising return to form after a decade or more of silence.
Happiness is?
Being next to my family first thing with a cup of tea and the two cats teasing our dog at the baby gate.
What does the future hold for you?
Peace and freedom from fear.
Kristen has written and performs in No Ball Games Allowed at Theatre Works from 1 – 9 April 2022. For more information, visit: www.theatreworks.org.au for details.
Image: Kristen Smyth (supplied)