Who is Matilda Rose Gibbs?
MR Gibbs is a Pisces through and through (take that for what you will), a foodie, and “good and nice” according to a 2013 ‘Like for a Rate’ post. I like to integrate these three qualities into my theatre work.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
This is very artist-coded of me but probably stop promising a specific change in lifestyle and then proceed to forget two seconds later about said lifestyle change.
Who inspires you and why?
Very cliché but my mum. Her work ethic, her kindness, her smarts, her tenacity, her athleticism, her resilience. Oh, and Flick & Tansy (not being held against my will).
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
To create/be a part of projects I believe in, with meaty messages behind them. I can only hope after I’ve deep-dived into understanding every single pocket of the specific universe and character, that people are hearing or seeing the right thing at the right time.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I love a French lodge to come back to after a big day of skiing and enjoying the snow. With hot chocolates, Baileys or champagne. Family or friends are a must, and the night must start with a cozy pj dinner (a cheese fondue entree set in stone) and descend into a giggly, slightly intoxicated dance party. Leaves me with an empty wallet but its worth it.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
A sunrise walk along Elwood Beach then a Caramel Pear Danish and a coffee. A simple but necessary pleasure, it’s legitimately so damn good. Then reconvene in the evening for a cheeky drink at a cozy cocktail bar before a theatre show. That’s several attractions, oops.
What are you currently reading?
Because the hustle never stops, I’m currently making my way through The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells, which follows an ever-evolving artificial intelligence, secretly operating with free-will and with a cute non-organic heart of gold. Motherboard, is that you? Yes, SLUTNIK™ is taking over my life. But, like a 12-hour slow cooked beef stew, I’m eating it up and coming back for seconds.
What are you currently listening to?
The SUBLIME! timing of the Barbie The Album release means I have no problem answering this. Also, the Live Homecoming version of Deja Vu by Beyonce ft. Jay-Z is simply transcendent. The crusty, 3-day bender rap vocals? The epic band? The belts? The ad libbed “YEAH”s? The transition into Green Light? Chef’s kiss.
Happiness is?
My dad’s cooking, especially when it brings me to tears… and it’s slow cooked. The absolutely foul, obnoxious laughter that takes over when friends slip up on a word. When they can read my mind. Coming out from a Pilates class. Leaving a productive rehearsal. Making someone laugh. Karaoke. Going for a run. Dessert. My cat Juno. My family in Bendigo and in the UK. Oh, and a really good sleep.
What does the future hold for you?
More stories, more opportunities to understand the world and the absolute chaos inside of it, as well as making more fun synergies with creatives on projects!
Matilda can be seen in SLUTNIK™ 2: Planet of the Incels at Theatre Works from 7 – 16 September 2023. For more information, visit: www.theatreworks.org.au for details.
Image: Matilda Rose Gibbs (supplied)