Who is Lewis Francis?
I am an actor and a singer originally from the UK. I moved to NZ when I was 6 and grew up on the beautiful peninsula of Whangaparaoa.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Career wise, I would of loved to have worked in tech. I think the digital space the world is moving into, i.e. blockchain, crypto, artificial intelligence etc, is really fascinating! In terms on lesson learned; not to quit when things got hard and have more patience with myself. For example, I wish I had stuck with my piano lessons and really applied myself to academia.
Who inspires you and why?
Cynthia Erivo is a huge inspiration of mine. She is a master of her craft on stage and on screen and is an amazing singer. I would love a career as versatile as hers.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Remind people that a little bit of kindness and empathy goes a long way.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I have three hah! Wanaka and Lake Tekapo in the South Island in NZ are two of my favourite holiday destinations. There are some amazing hikes, the scenery is so beautiful and it’s a wonderful place to escape and rest. My third is Ios, Greece. It is such a beautiful island, with so much history and the best nightlife!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
If my Australian friends are coming to visit Auckland, I would take them to Piha, a black sand surf beach on the west coast. If my NZ friends are coming to Sydney, I would take them to my friend’s café, bRU Coffee in North Bondi before we do the Bondi to Coogee costal walk. In short, the beach.
What are you currently reading?
I am in a little book club that my friend Brittany Page started, and we have just finished reading Anxious People by Fedrik Backman. Highly Recommend!
What are you currently listening to?
When I am at the gym, Kaytranada. When I am at home doing chores, I’m obsessed with Maurice Ravel – String Quartet in F major.
Happiness is?
Being with friends and family.
What does the future hold for you?
This is a very scary question! But I am gearing up for a big change and to move to London!
Lewis stars as Sky in Mamma Mia! The Musical – which plays the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 24 May, before heading to Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre – QPAC from 6 August and Melbourne’s Princess Theatre from 4 October 2023. For more information, visit: www.mammamiathemusical.com.au for details.
Image: Lewis Francis (supplied)