Leading man David Harris is leaving soon for the bright lights of New York City, but before he departs, he shares his own personal story on the Brisbane Powerhouse stage.
'Time Is A Traveller' tells the story of Harris (son of a coal-mining dad and a secretary mum) who went from an Aussie country kid to leading man in some of Australia's biggest musicals. Weaving together the songs and stories that have helped David shape his career from growing up in country New South Wales and the embarrassment of his first school musical, to the talent quests in RSL clubs, yodelling in the Swiss alps and the highs and lows of performing his dream role, this is a an intimate, personal and candid story.
What's the biggest lesson you've learnt about life through being in musical theatre?
I know I am very fortunate to have found a passion that I love and to make a career out of it. I know how invaluable that is, so I have learnt, more so as I get older, that being happy, whatever that is for each person is what we should be striving for. I have learnt tolerance and acceptance of each person's uniqueness and individuality and in the life of musical theatre I am inspired everyday by the people around me.
Best advice you've received?
Be nice to people on the way up, because you may meet them on the way down. I try to live by this, to be nice. You never know, that guy running around getting you water today, might be your producer tomorrow. Respect yourself and honour your own worth and ideals also.
Fav. line in the show and why?
I don't want to give anything away, but I do love the yodelling number!
Who would play you in a movie and what would the title be?
Hugh Jackman in 'The Younger Boy From Oz'.
What are your plans for NY?
I have always wanted to live and work in New York, the pinnacle of musical theatre, so now the opportunity has arisen for me to do that. My immediate plans and first gig is performing at the popular cabaret venue, 54 Below late September, which will be fun. The plan is to live in New York and divide my work between New York and Australia.
'Time Is A Traveller' is on for one night only, August 9, at Brisbane Powerhouse.
