Who is Stella Reid?
I’m a Pākehā theatre and filmmaker based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara, Aotearoa. My practice interrogates themes of identity, pop culture, feminism, surrealism, grief, and societal collapse – through both screen and stage.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Only one change. I would love to get more sleep. I have two conversations with my brain – one is throughout the day where I’m telling it to hurry up, and another is at night when I’m begging it to please shut off.
Who inspires you and why?
At the moment I’m inspired by Charli XCX, whose latest album feels like an investigation into some of the dark parts of my own heart. I’m inspired by Sh!t Theatre, whose latest work Evita Too I saw last night at Edinburgh Fringe. And I’m inspired by my beautiful niece on FaceTime this morning, who is starting to learn to crawl. Can you imagine coming up with the idea to crawl all by yourself?
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I am one of those crazy people who believes art makes a significant difference in the world. Recently, while experiencing the cognitive decline of my Dad, it has been art that has given me the best lesson in how to deal with the pain. Anne Carson’s The Glass Essay made a difference. Allan George’s film Mirumiru made a difference.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I have just come back from Croatia, where I spent a week in Dubrovnik with (fellow Werewolf castmate) Hannah Kelly. That was an absolute salve for the soul.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m lucky enough to live in the city I was born in, so I have far too many things to show them. I love the long stretch of coastline, so after a walk together it’s probably a pizza at Cutie Pie or a drink at Ascot (depending on our vibes), and then I’d probably end up doing work and showing them my office at the Hannah Playhouse theatre (thank you for the residency!) The following day would be a tour with Zozo Travel to wineries (and the company of my cousin who runs the tours).
What are you currently reading?
I just finished The Book of Guilt by Catherine Chidgey. A real page-turner; reminded me of Never Let Me Go.
What are you currently listening to?
James Blake’s album Overgrown. I put it on when I need to relax!
Happiness is?
My first thought is … a warm gun?
What does the future hold for you?
That’s none of my business.
Stella can be seen in Binge Culture’s Werewolf – which will be presented at the Underground Theatre – Brisbane Powerhouse, as part of the Brisbane Festival, from 23 – 26 September 2026. For more information, visit: www.brisbanefestival.com.au for details.
Image: Stella Reid with Joel Baxendale in Werewolf – photo by Lewis Ferris