On the Couch with Mick Stuart

AAR Mick Stuart photo by David SolmWho is Mick Stuart?
Mick Stuart is an offbeat human storyteller, by means of playing a host of musical instruments, acting, dancing, cooking and literally telling stories. He builds contraptions. He’s a frustrated Russian Spacecraft engineer trapped in an Australian musicians body and mind. 

What would you do differently to what you do now?
If I wasn’t what I am, I’d surely be a Jack Russell digging up your backyard. 

Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by many. George Benson made me want to play the guitar. My brothers and father inspired me to actually do it, and other instruments. Hilton Denis made me believe I can dance. My partner Sorcha inspires me massively simply by being unique and believing in me. In some way, almost everyone inspires me. 

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
By making people smile and laugh, by treating them as I would like to be treated, and generally being a source of entertainment.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Camping at Treachury Beach, NSW – it’s stunning, undiscovered, no phone reception, and I can light a fire and tell stories by it. 

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
Depends on the town. If I’m in Sydney, I’ll take them to Wattamolla Beach –  it’s not far from the city, stunning, undiscovered, and there’s no phone reception. 

What are you currently reading?
I just finished Jasper Jones.

What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently listening to Elyas and Eamon (Limbo Band) noodling on guitars while stage lights are being focused during a technical run of Limbo

Happiness is?
Being right in the moment. If I’m to be here, then here I AM. It seems to work for me and brings about wonderful opportunities. Of course I have plans and dreams, but If I become preoccupied with the future, shit goes up the wazoo. 

What does the future hold for you?
See question 9. 

Mick Stuart is a self-taught artist who began playing in bands and as a solo from the age of 12. He explored a range of instruments including the drums, bass, guitar and saxophone, until at the end of 2009, he designed and built his own instrument, The Polymba.

Along the way, Mick performed in many bands, including Eddie Perfect & The Renovators, Sunchasers, Chris Gudu Zimbabwean band, Rumpunch, and more recently with Green Man Theory as his newest Polymba-based project.

Mick featured in the multi Helpmann award winning Keating! The Musical for 2 years as lead guitarist and saxophonist as well as the part of Cheryl Kernot. He also performed as the bass player in Eddie Perfect’s musical, Misanthropology for its entire run throughout Australia and New Zealand.

Mick has also performed in Legs on the Wall’s My Bicycle Loves You and The Arrival with Ben Walsh and the Orkestra of the Underground. Mick has appeared on countless Australian albums including releases by Urthboy, Hermitude and Max Sharam.

Mick can currently be seen in LIMBO under the Spiegeltent as part of the 2015 Melbourne Festival until 1 November, and in a special performance featuring the Polymba at MPavilion on Wednesday 14 October – 1.00pm. For more information, visit: www.festival.melbourne for details.

Image: Mick Stuart – photo by David Solm