Who is Luke Rogers?
A theatre director, actor, producer and teacher. I graduated from NIDA (directing) and Theatre Nepean (acting). I predominantly work as a theatre director, am the artistic director of Stories Like These, and have made works for Griffin Theatre Company, ATYP, Seymour Centre, Old Fitz Theatre, New Theatre and NIDA, and many drama schools.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Too many things and, in a way, nothing at all. If we’re the sum total of our past experiences, all I am do is make an effort to be smarter, braver and more compassionate in the future. But something that would earn me more. Money would be nice!
Who inspires you and why?
Those who are prepared to take a big risk for what they believe in, fight for what they’re passionate about, with love, respect and generosity. That and my cast and crew of Blink. Bunch of legends.
What would you do to make a di?erence in the world?
As a theatre maker, so much of what we do is about encouraging a greater sense of empathy in the world; through the work we make, the stories we tell and the people we try to affect. I do believe we can change the world one person at a time, we need to instil greater compassion in the world right now.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I lived in London for a couple of years, and went back for a week a few years ago. It’s a city I find so easily to just slip into. I’ve still never been to New York, even though every year I say “this is the year you make it happen”. Hopefully soon. I don’t travel anywhere near as much as I want to, or used to. I’d like to go somewhere that doesn’t feel like another version of home.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I always think the first port of call for any international visitor should be the Opera Bar at Circular Quay. Throw yourself straight into the pretty, shiny, temptation of Sydney. I’d then say come see Blink and the Kings Cross Theatre.
What are you currently reading?
I have a mountain of plays that I’m about to tackle for work. Texts that I’m directing with various drama schools around town. I hate to confess, it’s been so long since I’ve read some fiction. I need to fix that.
What are you currently listening to?
Olafur Arnalds.
Happiness is?
That very first sip of coffee / red wine / scotch. It’s all downhill after that…
What does the future hold for you?
I’m working in a bunch of productions with various drama schools around town. The next big major project for me is directing the premiere of In Real Life by Julian Larnach for Darlinghurst Theatre Company. It’s a new play we’ve been working on together for the past couple of years, so very excited to see it reach the stage.
Luke is currently directing Phil Porter’s Blink at the King’s Cross Theatre until Saturday 4 March 2017. For more information, visit: www.storieslikethese.com for details.
Image: Luke Rogers (supplied)