Who is Lena Cruz?
Lena is grateful to be alive. She is sometimes challenged by some of the things currently happening in our world, but at the same time, feels positive as she is blown away by the sheer number of good hearted people she constantly meets along the way.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Spend less time on the internet; go to bed at 10pm, which is not possible when doing a show.
Who inspires you and why?
Mum. She has been through a lot. And yet, she is full of laughter and knows how to enjoy life. Her generosity moves me.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I try to live in the present and strive to always be honest with myself. I want to be a positive energy in this world. I also try my best to be environmentally conscious.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere where there’s a gorgeous clean beach and weather, lovely food, and good, reasonably priced massages. I used to love Bali, but it’s now so overcrowded, I don’t think I’ll go back there in a hurry. However, I am blessed to live so close to a beautiful beach in Sydney. Living there feels like a holiday most of the time.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The top ones would be the beaches, the Harbour , a show at the Opera house, and my favourite restaurants. It’s always exciting to get my friends to experience some of the things I love about Sydney.
What are you currently reading?
I’m re-reading Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda. The first time I read it was when I was doing Priscilla, 12 years ago. And now that we are doing a comeback tour nationally, I felt the need to read it again. This book changed my life. It is also such a thrilling read.
What are you currently listening to?
I actually rarely listen to music in my downtime. I prefer silence. But these days, I listen to Deva Premal, Miten, and Manose in the mornings when I drive to rehearsals.
Happiness is?
Doing what I love in life. Being able to share life’s beauty.
What does the future hold for you?
I imagine a life of creating and performing in projects that I love, enjoying my relationships, and more travel.
Lena stars as Cynthia in the 10th anniversary Australian tour of Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical, which commences previews on Sunday 21 January at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, ahead of opening night on Tuesday 30 January, before touring to Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. For more information, visit: www.priscillathemusical.com.au for details.
Image: Lena Cruz (supplied)