Who is Layton Lillas?
Firstly a Dad to a daughter, and second a producer that creates unforgettable family memories by putting on shows that can be enjoyed by all. Oh… and I never give up and never stop setting goals to achieve my dreams.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Realise that the things which are stressing me out today are simply not that important 5 years from now… so do not sweat the small stuff… and don’t take things so personally… easier said than done!
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone who has dared to dream and can look back on their legacy with pride that they did what they wanted and had fun doing it. Jon Bon Jovi was my original hero!
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Anything to see a child laugh… if Shrek has to fart and Fiona has to burp to get a laugh out of a kid, we’re doing it!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
New York for excitement, Samoa to chill out, and London to feel like I’m at my home away from home.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
In Melbourne… I’m a sports nut so the MCG!
What are you currently reading?
Oh dear… I’ve moved onto Audiobooks and Podcasts and haven’t turned the pages of a book for a few years now. I’m in a rabbit-hole into who really made the Pyramids of Giza…. da da da dunnnnnnnn Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.
What are you currently listening to?
John Farnham – Burn For You; Six The Musical – Ex-Wives; K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack and Bon Jovi – Livin’ on a Prayer… Guess my age haha!
Happiness is?
Looking back and realising you followed your dreams, and looking forward and realising you still have dreams to go after…
What does the future hold for you?
In a career that has included promoting shows in some of the biggest venues in Australia, New Zealand, the UK and the Middle East, I’ve always wanted to test myself in the US, and I get my opportunity with Dr Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat in March 2026, wish me luck!
Layton is the producer of Shrek The Musical – which is currently playing at Arts Centre Melbourne until 10 January, before playing the Frankston Arts Centre (12 – 14 January), Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo (16 – 17 January) and Coliseum Theatre, Sydney (21 – 24 January). For more information, visit: www.shrekmusical.com.au for details.
Image: Layton Lillas (supplied)