On the Couch with Sarah Vickery

Sarah-Vickery-AAR-On-the-CouchWho is Sarah Vickery?
I am a genderqueer lesbian person in the world who is deeply in love with everything that Kate Bush has ever made. I live and breathe for what I do and fiercely love those close to me. I am also happiest when it’s freezing cold outside.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would be a professional ballet dancer.

Who inspires you and why?
Kate Bush, there is nothing she hasn’t done that isn’t original and aspirational. She’s my ultimate creative inspiration.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Keep making work that has something to say; that leaves a lasting impression on those who come across it. That, and cleaning the oceans of our rubbish!

Favourite holiday destination and why?
London, it’s my home. Some of my dearest live there and of course theatre! Dreamy place.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them on an Aboriginal Heritage Walk. Everyone should know more about Naarm/Melbourne’s rich history of culture and story.

What are you currently reading?
I tend to read more than one book at once so it’s a bit of a list: Dark Emu by Bruce Pascoe; Growing Up Aboriginal in Australia by Anita Heiss; Black and Blue: a memoir of racism and resilience by Veronica Gorrie; Do Better by Rachel Ricketts and Talkin’ Up to the White Woman: Indigenous women and feminism by Aileen Moreton Robinson.

What are you currently listening to?
MUNA and Stevie Nicks.

Happiness is?
Doing the thing that gives you purpose, hope and causes that electric feeling in your belly when you think about it. Happiness is also, dogs. All the dogs.

What does the future hold for you?
I have no idea, but I’m chasing down the dream every day. One burning desire of a theatre project at a time. I do know as soon as international travel commences, I’ll be on a plane to London to chase the dream there for a while and hang out with Kate Bush.


Sarah is currently directing Still by Jen Silverman at fortyfivedownstairs for Heartstring Theatre until 11 July 2021. For more information, visit: www.fortyfivedownstairs.com for details.

Image: Sarah Vickery (supplied)