Who is Sam Routledge?
A dad with a poodle and a cd collection living in Moonah in lutruwita/Tasmania. I’ve been focused on puppetry as an artform for 25 years and think it’s very unique in the way it engages people.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Right now, we’re in full delivery mode for Goldfish and preparing for a US and Australian tour of The Paper Escaper by Gita Bezard. After that, I’m looking forward to taking some time to reimagine new ways of making work and engaging people. And I’d be a better gardener.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m inspired by people who help others and show kindness even in the most difficult circumstances. Music isn’t a ‘who,’ but it’s my go-to for inspiration and wonder – I have no idea how it’s made and no ability to make it myself.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Make theatre? I do believe it makes a difference when it reaches children who really need a moment of light in their day.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I went too Far North Queensland in 2023 and loved it for the culture, the fish, the birds (especially the Great Bustard) and the many different wallabies and kangaroos.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Mona and 7 Mile beach. Art and Nature within half an hour of the other. The New Norfolk swimming pool is also very under rated and maybe 35/40 minutes from Hobart city centre.
What are you currently reading?
Yeah Yeah Yeah: The Story of Modern Pop by Bob Stanley and The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro.
What are you currently listening to?
Motion and Movement by Showji Kumi and Edge by Darryl Braithwaite, I love pop music of all types from all times and I’m on a 90’s mission at the moment (actually I always am to be honest).
Happiness is?
Family, Friends, Art, Nature.
What does the future hold for you?
A torch I hope.
Sam is the Co-Director of Goldfish – a ground-breaking collaboration between celebrated Tasmanian puppetry company Terrapin and Japan’s Aichi Prefectural Art Theater – which will be presented at Arts House from 26 February – 2 March 2025. For more information, visit: www.artshouse.com.au for details.
Image: Sam Routledge – courtesy of Terrapin