On the Couch with Thern Reynolds

Thern Reynolds Arts Review On the CouchWho is Thern Reynolds?
Thern has had an extensive and varied career in musical theatre, which has taken him all over Australia, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, and has seen him take on many challenges, as an ensemble member, an understudy, a dance captain, a swing, minor roles, major roles and resident director/choreographer and director.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
There really isn’t much that I’d change about my life right now, but one thing I’d like to do differently, is allow myself to let loose a bit more than I currently do. The past few years have been so career focused that sometimes I forget to let my hair down and just be a bit crazy like I was in my 20’s.

Who inspires you and why?
Personally, my sisters, Narelle & Charlie inspire me. They are the most loving and selfless people I know, they make me want to be a better person every day. Professionally, Todd McKenney inspires me. His work ethic and his bravery are second to none. We have been friends for 25 years and I have watched him achieve so much. I love that I get to share in his success.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I have for some time now, wished that people would just stay out of other people’s business! I’d plead with people to be more accepting of other people, who they are and the choices that they make. We are all different. It upsets me that people are so quick to hurt other people based on race, sexuality and religion to name a few. Celebrate diversity in all its glorious forms and just be kind enough to let people lead the lives that make them happy.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Definitely Barcelona, Spain. The people, the weather, the atmosphere in the streets. The food, the wine, the architecture and the beach. A beautiful city that reminds me of some very special memories with some very special people.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
If they are international friends, then definitely Bondi Beach and The Opera House. I’d also get tickets to a musical that was playing at the time and show them some fabulous Aussie Theatre.

What are you currently reading?
Reading is my absolute favourite thing in the world. According to my kindle, I’ve read 64 books in the past year. I have just finished reading I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes. It’s a gripping page turner. I loved it!

What are you currently listening to?
Well, funny you should ask. My computer just died and I lost the 10,000 + songs I’ve collected over the years, but I was just at the gym and the last song I listened to on my iPod was Two Tribes by Frankie Goes to Hollywood! I love my 80’s tunes!

Happiness is?
Spending time with my amazing family and friends, sun filled days at the beach & being onstage and belting out I Want It All with Jaz Flowers every night in We Will Rock You!

What does the future hold for you?
I have absolutely no idea, but as always, I will never stop hoping that the future will continue to bring me happiness and good fortune. I’m a pretty optimistic guy.

Thern is currently appearing as Brit in the Australian production of We Will Rock You – which plays Brisbane’s Lyric Theatre, QPAC (10 July – 14 August), before touring to the Regent Theatre, Melbourne (30 August – 16 October), Crown Theatre, Perth (15 – 27 November), and the Adelaide Festival Centre (31 December – 12 January). For more information, visit: www.wewillrockyou.com.au for details.

Image: Thern Reynolds