Who is Lizzie Schebesta?
I’m an actor and (until very recently) a director living in Sydney. I studied at WAAPA in Perth before moving back to home in order to pursue acting and theatre-making, where I’ve spent most of my time working with Sport For Jove theatre company. I’m also a feminist, a fierce knitter and the proud owner of a pet rabbit – Jumphrey Bogart.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
There’s nothing I’d do differently that’s within my control to change I think.
Who inspires you and why?
My partner Yalin Ozucelik, who is currently giving a masterful performance of Iago for Bell Shakespeare’s Othello. He’s the most talented actor I know and he also happens to be the kindest person too. Also, my fellow co-director Damien Ryan inspires me. He’s an alchemical genius.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m very passionate about seeing women more greatly valued in the cultural fabric of Australian film and theatre. I co-founded an organisation called WITS last year and I volunteer many hours a week to helping to keep that running in order to improve things for women in our industry. I want to make it a less threatening and more equal place for the next generation of women.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My partner is from Turkey, so I have the pleasure of going there every couple of years with his family. Everything about that country is painfully beautiful – the food, the history, the people, the landscape. Its an incredible place.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Old Fitz theatre of course! Best theatre in town – for a good price – and a great kitchen.
What are you currently reading?
Look Back In Anger. Again and again and again. I’m abstaining from reading anything else until we’ve opened.
What are you currently listening to?
Death, Sex & Money podcast – episode called When I almost Died.
Happiness is?
Connection – with my family and with an audience in the theatre.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully just more of what makes me happy.
Lizzie will be co-directing (with Damian Ryan) a 60th Anniversary production of John Osborne’s Look Back In Anger at the Old Fitz Theatre: 16 August – 10 September, before playing at the Belvoir Downstairs Theatre: 13 – 17 September 2016. For more information, visit: www.oldfitztheatre.com for details.
Image: Lizzie Schebesta