Who is Michaela Burger?
A 40-something Greek/Italian Australian who has a passion for singing, acting, writing, philosophy, reading, the ocean and who asks herself on a daily basis “what’s the meaning of this life?”
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Absolutely nothing! I love what I do and couldn’t imagine doing anything differently in my life.
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone who follows their heart and passion. To follow your passion is to take risks and step outside of the norm. Seeing people do this is inspiring. It’s easy to conform, it’s easy to stay safe doing what we know for fear of not succeeding. To decide to follow a passion even if it ostracises us, brings us a lower income or creates uncertainty, that, to me, is inspiring.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would change the way we educate our children. I would emphasis a good heart and mind in schooling, rather than high grades.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere with my husband. Mainly because we rarely get to ‘holiday’ together, as I am touring so many months of the year.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The NGV (because there are always fantastic exhibitions on), Melbourne Botanic Gardens (because I love to walk in nature and it’s extremely beautiful) and Sense of Self day spa (because it is next level relaxation and an incredible environment to experience).
What are you currently reading?
As It Is by Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche.
What are you currently listening to?
Français Authentique – a French course, to help me improve my French : )
Happiness is?
Being content with exactly where you are at an exact moment. Not looking forward, not looking back. Finding the joy in the present.
What does the future hold for you?
I have no idea, and that’s what’s exciting about it. I’m in the final development stages of my new show about sex worker and activist Grace Bellavue, and this is super exciting. It will be premiered in 2024 or 2025 – so stay tuned.
Michaela presents her critically-acclaimed, award-winning production of A Migrant’s Son at the Riverside Theatres, Parramatta, on Friday 3 November 2023. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au for details.
Image: Michaela Burger (supplied)