Who is Todd Kingston?
I’m Todd, I make theatre and live in Melbourne. I like to make stories speak to our collective experiences as a culture and community. I love all things horror and am deeply fascinated by Invader Zim. I started out as an actor and I discovered that I had a huge passion for writing and directing. So here I am, writing and directing a show!
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’ve always thought about going back to Uni and becoming a DOP or cinematographer, the way those people use cameras like paintbrushes is unreal. Other than that, I wanted to be an astronaut when I was a kid, maybe that?
Who inspires you and why?
My team on Metro. Seriously. I know everybody says this about their production but I have the best team ever. The way they bring their motivation, passion and commitment to this play is very humbling. The actors push themselves to form such nuanced performances.
Everybody behind the scenes finding creative solutions to make the show sound and look the way it does. The marketing team telling the story of the show through it’s media. It’s hard to make yourself look unique in a fringe programme and they make us stand out. I love my team, and to be honest they’ve spoilt me rotten. Shame on them.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Continue to do what most good spirited people do. Use my voice to advocate for those who cannot. My voice is that of an artist, so I do what I can to use my art for good. Tell stories of people who’s stories are the minority and most of all, listen to those who may think different to me, even in situations where I may disagree.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I lived in New York for a year pre-covid and I miss it dearly. But I think Japan takes the cake. Japan is so amazing. A crossroads of so many different cultures and communities. Drive in one direction and there’s a mega city. Drive in another and you have quaint village towns and sweeping natural vistas. I can’t wait to go back soon and hopefully climb Mt Fuji!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them to PICA for a face melting techno gig, then to Gemma Simply Italian on Elgin St for the best risotto I’ve ever had in my life. Dinner and dancing.
What are you currently reading?
The novelisation of Silent Hill 2. It’s so damn good.
What are you currently listening to?
A mix of JVB’s new album HYPERYOUTH, Yousuke Yukimatsu Boiler Room set, and Put a Little Love in Your Heart by Jackie DeShannon.
Happiness is?
A large zinger box, extra Mayo on burger, swap potato and gravy with extra chips, extra salt, supercharger Mayo with a Pepsi Max. Oh, and being loved, loving others and doing what you love.
What does the future hold for you?
Maybe return to acting again. I miss it. I have a few ideas to write other productions next year (keep an eye out). Hopefully the next one doesn’t take six years to come to life. A zinger box or two. And I’m going to Strawberry Fields, I’ll see you there!
Todd is the Playwright & Director (in collaboration with Assistant Director Jefferson Nguyen) of METRO – which plays the Studio Theatre – Gasworks Arts Park, as part of the 2025 Melbourne Fringe Festival, from 7 – 11 October. For more information, visit: www.melbournefringe.com.au for details.
Image: Todd Kingston – photo by J. Nguyen