Who is Stephen Loftus?
I’m a 26 year old, Melbourne based lover of the arts, cocktails, good food and good times. I grew up in country Victoria, but have spent my adult years across Melbourne and Ballarat, where I trained in musical theatre. Alongside my performing, especially due to the lean times for the arts through the last few years, I work at a restaurant called Lollo in the city. So, my life can feel quite hectic a lot of the time especially when I’m lucky enough to book a show like Coming Out.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I hadn’t have gone down the theatre path, I probably would have become a musician. I trained in piano from a very young age and still love it – I did almost thirteen years formal training so I’d love a chance to show off those skills one day. After graduating from high school I received offers for music degrees to continue studying piano. I also received an offer to study musical theatre and I guess the call to musical theatre won out because I’ve always loved it so much. I still think I would have been a great pianist – just saying.
Who inspires you and why?
I think anyone who is truly passionate about what they do and determined to achieve their dreams. Those sort of people always make me more passionate and fuel me up to go further and be better at whatever opportunity I’m given. Particularly I love the work of Reuben Kaye, Yve Blake, Luke Di Somma and Gemma Caruana – all people who are just smashing their dreams and doing what their hearts desire.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
All the little things. Recycle, reuse, smile at people, say hello and goodbye, give compliments where compliments are deserved. Bring joy to people’s lives little by little, and hope they can pass that attitude and those feelings on to others.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Western Australia. It’s so much warmer and filled with fantastic wineries, beaches, markets and people – plus, it’s big! I’d love to go back and do a longer road trip and get to explore some of the more remote areas of WA.
When friends come to town what attraction would you take them to and why?
There are two places that come to mind: first is the music room at Her in the city, known as a “listening bar” the venue deals out the good vinyl sounds and good beats creating an amazing vibe. The whole place is so intimate but a big vibe. I’d also take people to Milk Head Beer Store in St Kilda. Alex has done amazing job of making the venue warm, intimate and welcoming. He curates amazing beer and the place just keeps getting better and better. (Free beers Alex?)
What are you currently reading?
Two queer pieces: Yes, Yes, Yes and the Velvet Rage.
What are you currently listening to?
I cannot stop listening to Sammy Rae and the Friends. Sammy Rae is phenomenal, and the big band backing is hot!
Happiness is?
Not worrying about things you cannot control; finding the silly, the fun, the goofy in everyday life.
Stephen can be seen in the world premiere of Coming Out by Scott Taylor – which is currently playing at Chapel Off Chapel until 19 February. For more information, visit: www.chapeloffchapel.com.au for details.
Image: Stephen Loftus (supplied)