Who is Sonya Kerr?
An actor, a budding historian, an avid comic book reader, a dnd player, a cat mum, a cook, a nerd… there’s so many ways to answer this question! At the heart, I am a person who likes to tell stories, in whatever form they may take.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve kind of started (and almost finished) that journey already with going back to Uni and studying a history and criminology degree. I’m fascinated by how people shaped our culture and society to be where we are now, and how that evolution continues to shape the world around us. I guess, I wish I had started my steps towards becoming an historian a little earlier, but hey, that’s the way the world works right? You get where you get when you need to get there? Having said that, I adore acting and telling stories, so I’m not so sure I would want to change that.
Who inspires you and why?
I get inspired by so many things, depending on what I’m focussing on at the time. But, my mum is a constant inspiration. I know that sounds twee, but she’s lived a life, bringing up three very different kids each with their own issues, she’s dealt with divorce, death and mental illness in the family. She’s worked hard her whole life, and throughout it all, she has always been the most giving person. Helping her community through volunteering, working with the homeless, fundraising, playing the bagpipes for various events, public speaking, catering cricket games…the list goes on. She is my inspiration.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I know there are big issues in the world, especially at the moment. We are bombarded with news of tragedy and destruction across the globe. And it can be overwhelming. Protest and petition are always great ways to voice your want for change, but sometimes it can all seem so big. You don’t know how you can make a difference and you may feel like you’re just yelling into the void. But I think little things can make a big impact. A donation to charity, giving unwanted clothes etc to services that can distribute them to those who need them, listening to a friend who is having a rough time, helping someone with a problem. All these little acts of kindness can make a difference to our world.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’m a quiet holiday person. My husband and I like to go to the Blue Mountains. Katoomba is such a beautiful little place. Cute cafes, lots of history, antiques, and bush walks in some of the most beautiful forests in Australia. Then a long bath with a glass of wine at the end of the day. Perfection.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d see what exhibitions are on and take them there. The State Library always has really interesting installations. Maybe to the Museum of Human Disease… my friends know I’m odd, so they’d expect nothing less! But every trip would end with a couple of glasses of wine, a cheese board and some charcuterie at a cute bar, because culture and good wine are the perfect pairing.
What are you currently reading?
I’m one of those weird people that have several books on the go at once. So for Uni, I’m reading Sixties Europe by Timothy Scott Brown. On my bedside table (among many) I have just started Kill the Farm Boy: The Tales of Pell by Deliah S. Dawson & Kevin Hearne, a fantasy/fairytale comedy; and my current commuting book is The Witch by Ronald Hutton, a deep dive into the history of European witchcraft from early beginnings to the trials. I also just finished re-reading the graphic novel Blacksad by Juan Díaz Canales (writer) and Juanjo Guarnido (artist). A stunning graphic novel, and one of my all time favs. Eclectic tastes.
What are you currently listening to?
I like to listen to music that relates to the show I’m in, so right now it’s a lot of 1960’s British Invasion. Right now, as I write this, it’s The Beatles Revolution. Cracker of a song!
Happiness is?
Depending on the day… but generally I’d say a glass of good red wine, a good book and time to read it, and a purring cat sitting next to you.
What does the future hold for you?
Who knows! I’m hoping it holds a lot more acting work, an honours project for Uni… I’d love a gig doing historical research for a film or series (just putting it out there!). Health, wealth and happiness would be great! The future is never clear, we’ll just have to wait and see what happens in the next episode.
Sonya can be see as Alice Wade in Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen – which is currently playing at Sydney’s New Theatre until 14 September 2024. For more information, visit: www.newtheatre.org.au for details.
Image: Sonya Kerr (supplied)