Local artist profile: Chris Emond

THIS week we chat with the amazing theatre performer Chris Emond.

What initially motivated you to become a performer? 

At first it was the excitement and sense of community that attracted me to it. But very quickly I discovered a genuine interest in finding out as much as I could about the craft. It showed me much about the world I may not have had the opportunity to access otherwise.

You’re appearing in the Bendigo Theatre Company’s upcoming staging of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Can you tell us a little bit about that?

We will be staging at Bendigo’s Ulumbarra Theatre between the 7 and 10 July. Tickets have been on sale for a few weeks now. Good seats are still available and selling fast. We’re well into rehearsals and building the scenes, songs and dances. The cast and creative team are wonderful; full of energy and working hard to bring this show to life.

What’s the most memorable stage show you’ve been to as part of the audience?

Many years ago a friend offered me a ticket to see a performance with him as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

The audience was shown into an open factory floor where all around there were set pieces. Action started occurring all around us. We were free to wander around and view whatever sparked our interest.

Occasionally the action would focus on an individual performer and then break away to action everywhere again. Loud music, flashing lights and a party atmosphere made us feel like we were at a club.

One character appeared to pass away and then the show ended. Days later we realised they had recreated the last day in the life of River Phoenix. The immersiveness of the experience has always stayed with me.

Which other performers inspire you? 

I find inspiration in the actor opposite me, creating moments and making it feel spontaneous and new. It’s a wonderful feeling! I may as well add a few names; Gary Oldman, Flea – bass player from Red Hot Chilli Peppers. He’s a crazy good actor as well.

I admire the creativity of Luc Besson and George Lucas. I also love the stage presence of Freddy Mercury. What a legend!

What are some highlights you have from your career?  

My first paid job! I spent two years with a theatre in education (TIE) company, the Flying Bookworm Theatre Company, doing shows in schools.

In 2008 the opportunity to live and work in Italy with another TIE company came up. We toured all over Italy for six months. I still miss the food, history and hospitality of Italy.

More recently, Ned – A New Australian Musical staged at the then newly opened Ulumbarra Theatre. Sixteen professional performers from Melbourne in the leads and ten local performers made up the ensemble of which I was a part. The music is beautiful!

What advice would you give to young regional people thinking of making a go of the performance life?

Make a start. There are many ways to become involved with theatre in our area. Whether it’s the school production – how I got started, a local community theatre group or another opportunity that comes your way. Take a dancing or singing lesson, do a workshop, start your network of like-minded people. If this is meant for you, nothing will deter you from having a go.