Who is Melanie Bird?
Melanie Bird is an actor and singer born and raised in Melbourne. She is a cat mum to an extremely naughty cat called Cashew, a reformer Pilates addict, a big fan of the Real Housewives franchises, a foodie and loves nothing more than a good laugh.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I wasn’t an actor? I would try and make a living out of travelling the world somehow. So maybe a travel blogger or teaching English abroad.
Who inspires you and why?
Currently the group of talents I’m working with – Bobby Fox, Sarah Morrison and Joel Granger. All of course led by our director, Tyran Parke, who continually inspires us to play in our gorgeous show.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Endeavour to stay positive in a scary changing world and actively practice kindness and patience with everyone I meet.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My recent favourite holiday destination has got to be Japan. I can’t get enough of their food, shopping and the natural beauty. However I feel very nostalgic about South East Asia, particularly Singapore and Thailand, as I went there a fair bit when I was younger to visit family.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m a total foodie, so I would take them to some of my favourite spots to eat in Melbourne. My current favourites are Yakimono (Collins street), Pastuso (AC/DC Lane) and Kenzan (Flinders Lane).
What are you currently reading?
I just finished Pachinko by Min Jin Lee – a beautiful and heartbreaking tale of a Korean family immigrating to Japan during the Japanese occupation of Korea. And now in a complete 180, I am shamelessly reading Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros – the famous adult fantasy romance series, and consider me hooked.
What are you currently listening to?
I am a nerd at heart, a dungeons and dragons nerd to be specific. I am currently listening to a podcast called NADDPOD – which is a group of comedians/actors who play D&D together.
Happiness is?
Quality time with my most treasured people, time spent belly laughing, eating good food, sunny weather, swimming in the warm ocean and getting to perform on stage.
What does the future hold for you?
The near future is performing in Ordinary Days at fortyfivedownstairs which is very exciting. As for my future beyond that, I’m not sure but I really hope it involves a lot of travel!
Melanie can be seen in Ordinary Days by Adam Gwon – presented by Clovelly Fox Productions at fortyfivedownstairs from 20 – 31 August 2025. For more information, visit: www.fortyfivedownstairs.com for details.
Image: Melanie Bird (supplied)