Artist’s Context – Acting
To say I wouldn’t try anything is an understatement. I apply for anything which enables me to combat the black dog.
It came as a surprise, even to me, when I applied and was accepted on the pilot ADF ARRTS program 15.1, in May 2015.

What followed was a month with amazing, talented and caring people,
who made it a safe place to express ourselves using all forms of the Arts.

I signed up for Acting and Performance. I felt this to be the most confronting and compelling form of expression. All I can say is I loved it! So much in fact, that following the program, I successfully auditioned for a role in live theatre role back in my hometown. I believe I got the part because of my new-found confidence. I now embarked on a journey as an actor in a play with a live, paying audience. To me this was a miracle. I would never have believed it, yet suddenly I can be this other person. I can channel all my built-up anger, anxiety and frustrations and allow these emotions to breathe realism into my characters. Well I was pretty raw first time out, but a Director provides a safe place to build your character, just the same as the ARRTS Program… it all starts with a safe place.

In my first role, I played a US soldier with mental health issues… I know, right?! When it was over, I craved another. On closing night, I felt sad, just like losing family. I came to understand this is exactly what it was. I become part of a big family, the theatre community, and the feeling of loss is very real.

Acting is a real challenge and can be tough. There’s so much riding on your performance.
What you do on stage affects everyone’s performance. Teamwork… I knew a little bit about that!

I was also fortunate enough to act in a big-budget movie! Yes, I made it to the bigscreen—a very exciting time.
Fancy paying to go and see yourself! It wasn’t a big part, but hey!

My next move was to the Gold Coast where I joined another wonderful theatre family and was fortunate to bring another great character to life! This time, an ex-army guy – turned footy coach, who has regular flashbacks to the battlefield!
You’ve gotta laugh!

When you audition and successfully gain a role, you work with the Director who becomes your leader, confidant and friend.
They are wonderfully talented humans,  with the aim of bringing the script to life.
They assist you, and guide you—help you understand more of the character and yourself.
I am very grateful, as I’ve learnt so much from these dedicated individuals.

My next move was to Cairns where I joined yet another theatre family. Happily I’ve now performed in 2 more successful plays.
My most recent play was directed by a proud Vietnam Veteran; so an older veteran, directing a contemporary veteran.
Go figure… amazing!

Still a serving member, I learn more about myself every day, and it all started with a seed planted in Canberra through the initial ADF ARRTS Program in 2015, which continues to grow.

Every one of my theatre roles has been a journey; a fantastic journey and experience. There’s still more to come!
One of my goals is to form a “Veterans’ for Acting and Performance Group”, because I would like nothing better than for
more Vets to experience the growth and joy I have.

The images below are media memories from some of the productions I’ve been involved with. (click images to enlarge)