Who is Nell Ranney?
A theatre maker, which for me, means a director who loves getting her hands dirty in the process of building stories, alongside artists, from their inception. Post-covid, I’d say she’s also a dog lover and advocate for life balance!
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d love to grow a permaculture garden one day and learn to be more self-sufficient.
Who inspires you and why?
I am inspired by the under dogs and the quiet achievers. A big inspiration when making Maureen: Harbinger of Death with Jonny Hawkins was researching the life of Leonora Carrington, a surrealist artist and writer who remains relatively unknown in her native England but became a superstar in her adopted home of Mexico. She forged her identity in exploring the peripheries with curiosity and humour.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
To tread lightly, connect with and give back to nature.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Hawaii. I love the melting pot of warm and quirky people, ukulele tunes, poke bowls and pineapple Dole whips, hiking volcanoes and swimming with sea turtles. The majesty and power of nature there is so tangible and accessible.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Jumping on an old Sydney ferry! I think they’re pretty special and will be sad when they are no longer around.
What are you currently reading?
Humankind, a Hopeful History by Rutger Bregman.
What are you currently listening to?
Goodmonster (my partner’s band). I am forever listening and know all the songs off by heart.
Happiness is?
My dog, Megs.
What does the future hold for you?
Walking beside “Maureen” as she keeps touring, winning over hearts and slowly conquering the world. And a new collaboration with artist Victoria Haralabidou called GRLZ, inspired by her experiences growing up in Russia, as well as Pussy Riot and dreams of running away with the circus. It is a multi-disciplinary and bilingual work, performed in both English and Auslan.
Nell is the Co-conceiver & Director of Maureen: Harbinger of Death – which will be presented in the Space Theatre – Adelaide Festival Centre, as part of the 2023 Adelaide Festival: 14 – 18 March. For more information, visit: www.adelaidefestival.com.au for details.
Image: Nell Ranney (supplied)