What do you do?
Co-Artistic Director of Everyman Theatre, also I write and act and direct and shit.
When did you get into it?
When I was eight years old, my mother was heavily involved in theatre in WA, and therefore I was the obnoxious child giving my opinion to everyone during the rehearsals where she couldn’t find a babysitter.
Who or what influences you as an artist?
I have no idea. Does television count as an influence? And is that good? I take bit and pieces from everywhere, visual arts, music, so I guess that makes me a pastiche. I like that word.
What’s your proudest moment so far?
Two things – completely nailing the reprise of ‘I’ll Cover You’ in RENT 12 nights in a row (I got a tattoo for that) and getting both parts of Angels in America to the Canberra stage in 2008 (I got a tattoo for that one too).
What are your plans for the future?
Everyman Theatre is building on it successes, and I’m excited about seeing it going from strength to strength this year and into the future. Oh, and maybe a Sondheim musical.
What makes you laugh?
Any number of things. Jessica Brent at rehearsals, Duncan Ley doing an American accent, Sue Sylvester, boobs.
What pisses you off?
People who assume they’re in charge.
What’s your opinion of the local scene?
It’s growing, developing and changing, and I love being part of that.
What are your upcoming performances?
I’m directing The Laramie Project, Everyman’s next show. It’s on at the Courtyard Studio from the May 20. Bookings and info from Canberra Ticketing – 6275 2700
Contact Info
My email address is jarrad.west@gmail.com. I haven’t had a date in nearly a year, so hit me up. No, seriously.
