Who is Todd MacDonald?
I’m an actor, artist, programmer and director and about to finish my sixth (and final year) as the CEO and Artistic Director of La Boite Theatre company in Kelvin Grove, Brisbane, on the lands of traditional custodians the Jagera and Turrbul people.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
The work at La Boite has been a dream job for me, so I’m about to leap into the unknown. I love what I do, I love artists and audiences so something related – but until that becomes apparent, I’m spending loads of time gardening, building, hanging out with my twin daughters who are remarkable young women!
Who inspires you and why?
Both my daughters are a huge inspiration for me, tempered by the huge responsibility it is to be a parent. I love it though. Artists inspire me. Courage inspires me. Vulnerability and humility inspire me.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Everyone makes a difference in one way or another. I hope the work I’ve been doing has helped make a difference in the world – a moment at a time, a show at a time, a performance at a time. It’s a long game but I deeply believe that creative practice can elevate and connect us all, it can show us a way forward together. I hope to learn more, stay open and challenge myself to listen more deeply and take more responsibility – then I think anything I do will make a positive impact in the world.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Mijerribah – a beautiful Island near Brisbane. Every year we go there as a family and just stop. Its grounding and revitalising.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’m looking forward to this happening again! I think I would cook them a meal at home and perhaps take them to the Enoggera Reservoir for a swim (assuming its warm) otherwise a brilliant production at La Boite!
What are you currently reading?
I’m reading Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke, Dark Emu by Bruce Pascoe and The Relationship is the Project edited by Jade Lillie, with Kate Larsen, Cara Kirkwood and Jax Jacki Brown.
What are you currently listening to?
Deadly Hearts – Walking Together compilation. Here and Now by Gretta Ray. Song Machine, Season One: Strange Timez by Gorillaz and Electric Fields.
Happiness is?
Free of stress. Calm. Abundant. Safe.
What does the future hold for you?
Watch this space…
Todd is the outgoing Artistic Director of La Boite Theatre in Brisbane – who is bidding farewell to the Company after six years. La Boite has also just revealed Act One of their 2021 Season. For more information, visit: www.laboite.com.au for details.
Image: Todd MacDonald – photo by Dylan Evans