You’re about to star in80 Minutes No Intervalat the Old Fitz Theatre. Is the play really as simple as the title suggests?
Absolutely. Who else is tired of three-hour shows? OK – Jasper Jones was brilliant, but most shows are too long! This is short, sharp, heaps of fun and also moving. It’s the sort of thing theatregoers will love because it celebrates the indulgence of theatre but also it’s the sort of show my dad could enjoy. It has a clear narrative and heaps of gags. Something for everyone.
How is the rehearsal process when the writer for a play is also its director, in this case Travis Cotton?
It’s great. It’s a different experience for me because I’m used to playing the reaction to moments. Trav has us playing everything on the lines, to push the momentum and keep anyone from dropping the ball. Or maybe it’s so we don’t go over 80 minutes? Either way, I’ve had to adapt and it’s good to be challenged. I always start rehearsals thinking it’s all up to me; that I have to have it all figured out day one. Then I realise I’m surrounded by very gifted people and I just trust that we’re all doing it together. The characters around you inform your own character as much as you do. Wait till you see Robin Goldsworthy rip. That guy is so funny, my biggest challenge will be not breaking into laughter.
Bad luck keeps striking your character down, but what’s the unluckiest thing that’s ever happened in your career?
I got fired from a really bad TV show. I was considered not good enough to be in a really shit show that bombed and was universally panned. Now I think about it, maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing. Depends how you look at things, I guess.
Do you believe we make our own luck?
I don’t know. I think you just have to get up every day and try again. I’ve had so many ups and downs as an actor and I think you have to accept that nothing stays the same. Focus on the possible and the impossible starts seeming more likely. Be grateful for the people that support you and try and set that example. I should write a self-help book. I did just have two coffees, so it could be the caffeine talking, but I do try and live that way.
You’ve had a busy last few years in film and television acting. What’s planned for the year ahead?
A TV show! Very excited. We start shooting in April. It airs next year. That’s all I can say right now.
80 Minutes No Interval runs until Saturday April 9 at TheOld Fitz Theatre.
