'New Ways To Dream' - Actor, Writer, Director, Theatre Maker; Terence O'Connell

Terence O'Connell took his first steps towards a life in the theatre as dresser to the male chorus in J.C. Williamson's celebrated production of Funny Girl. The role provided the perfect vantage point to observe the machinery of a large musical, on stage and off, cementing an ambition to make theatre himself. Terence completed time as an actor working through Western Australia followed by a venture to the UK which awakened a desire to direct. Upon returning to Australia, Terence completed the Directors Course at NIDA and has subsequently, staged some 150 productions in theatres, concert halls, circus tents, cabaret rooms and comedy venues across Australia and internationally. His national touring shows include Barmaids, They're Playing Our Song, Motherhood: The Musical and The 39 Steps, The Rocky Horror Show, Buddy-The Buddy Holly Story, Busting Out, Decadence, Bouncers, Circus OZ, Flying Fruit Fly Circus and Certified Male. Terence has created many of his own productions including I Only Want To Be With You: The Dusty Springfield Story, Life On Mars: The Words And Music Of David Bowie, Cruising Paradise: Sam Shepard Tales, Greek Goddess: Melina Mercouri, Reviewing The Situation: At Home With Lionel Bart, and Minefields And Miniskirts: Australian Women And The Vietnam War. Terence was Director of Spiegelworld's outrageous circus burlesque Empireon, its international tour, and Circus Sensa at London's Albany Empire. Terence helmed nine Broadway musicals for The Production Company at Melbourne's State Theatre. These included Oklahoma, The King & I, Crazy For You, Damn Yankees, 42nd Street and The Pajama Game, and demonstrated his ease at staging big stories on a large canvas. Recently he has been adapting two Australian classics for the stage; One Crowded Hour: Neil Davis, Combat Cameraman and a music theatre adaptation of the classic memoir, I Can Jump Puddles. Mrs Prime Minister, a song cycle focussing on several prominent wives of Australian leaders, has also taken to the stage under Terence's construction and guidance. He is passionate about telling stories across all forms and styles. Whether making original, or staging established product, Terence O'Connell's work is always inspired, exciting and bound to prompt awe. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). www.stagespodcast.com.au