Who is Nicola Watson?
An upbeat pessimist.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Use my water flosser instead of just look at it.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by my young students, who reveal wonder and humour in effortless ways.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Where to start? Possibly I’d write a comedic tirade of complaint disguised as a play, title it Spare A Thought for Jana Wendt, and put it on at La Mama HQ throughout the month of April this year…
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I was a Rotary Exchange Student in the 90s and spent a year in Japan when I was 15 – I can often be found orchestrating elaborate plans to relocate there, but usually settle for a holiday. Otherwise, anywhere near a 50m ocean pool.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Hmm- I live in on Pinchunga land in Penola, a small country town near the VIC/SA border – I would probably take visitors to walk around Mount Gambier’s spectacular Blue Lake, followed by a cuddle from the lovable but divisive public artwork, Cast in Blue (AKA the Blue Blob).
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently between books, which is a wretched place to be. However, I’ll take this opportunity to recommend a favourite book that continues to haunt me – The Swimmers by Julie Otsuka. An inventive, compassionate yet spare summation of life and grief. I wept while reading – it’s such a good book.
What are you currently listening to?
The robot vacuum cleaner that Santa finally delivered after three years of sitting atop my 6-year-old’s Christmas wishlist. And, when I get the chance – Burt Bacharach’s Something Big, on headphones, on repeat.
Happiness is?
Not a warm gun.
What does the future hold for you?
Death. So I try not to take things too seriously.
Nicola is the Playwright of Spare a Thought for Jana Wendt – which will be presented at La Mama Theatre HQ from 8 – 26 April 2026. For more information, visit: www.lamama.com.au for details.
Image: Nicola Watson (supplied)