On the Couch with Luca Catalano

Luca Catalano AAR On the CouchWho is Luca Catalano?
Luca Catalano is a funny little guy from Melbourne who likes to put on fun theatre and make films with his friends!

What would you do differently from what you do now?
A job would be nice.

Who inspires you and why?
Rene Redzepi is someone whose work reminds me that just because someone’s path or body of work or methods look nothing like those of their peers, does not mean they are not doing the wrong thing or lesser in any way.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Storytelling is an essential feature of humanity. I feel it is the most fundamental form of education because unlike other vehicles in which to transfer knowledge, engaging with storytelling is not only receiving the lessons within the subject matter but also learning the craft of storytelling itself. Does that make sense? Like passing someone a book and saying “hey, read this.” Does not teach them how to invent the printing press. Surgery is also important, I would do that if I knew how.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Verona. The whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage site so there is so much history just walking down any given street. It is also quite a small city, so you don’t leave with a feeling that you’ve barely scratched the surface and wish you’d seen more. It’s also not as busy as other places in Italy in terms of tourist traffic, so you do feel like you are in Italy and not a theme park that looks like Italy.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Cafe De Vili’s! (for the purposes of promoting our Adelaide Fringe show I am temporarily from Adelaide)

What are you currently reading?
28: A memoir of football, addiction, art, masculinity and love by Brandon Jack.

What are you currently listening to?
Karina Longworth’s film podcast series on the Erotic 90’s.

Happiness is?
Food. Maybe nicotine as well, nicotine and caffeine. Food, nicotine and caffeine. And good company too I suppose.

What does the future hold for you?
More theatre and less debt!


Luca is the Director and Producer of Dubious Intent by Callum O’Mara – which will be presented at The Garage International @ Adelaide Town Hall: 9 – 11 March 2024. For more information, visit: www.adelaidefringe.com.au for details.

Image: Luca Catalano (supplied)