Newly-appointed Holden Street Theatres director-in-residence Nick Fagan shares his views on appreciating life’s little moments, his passion for the Adelaide Crows and Holden Street’s latest production, Till the Stars Come Down.
You are directing Beth Steel’s play Till The Stars Come Down. Tell us about that?
It is a modern masterpiece. At its heart, TTSCD is about what holds us together—and what quietly pulls us apart. The play carries the emotional weight of a Greek tragedy, woven seamlessly into the fabric of an ordinary family wedding day.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like?
My perfect day is one with no agenda and zero expectation on me. I love a day that is at my own pace and spontaneous. It would be spent with my little family and involve delicious food, an adventure or experience that we all enjoy equally and end with a good movie on the couch together.
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced?
It’s difficult to single out just one moment, not because none stand out, but because I’ve been fortunate to experience kindness so consistently in my life. There isn’t one defining instance that eclipses the rest, but it’s the accumulation of thoughtful, generous acts especially from my family and close friends that has shaped my understanding of kindness. Whether in small, quiet gestures or in moments of real need, I’ve been surrounded by people who show up for one another without hesitation.
What is your favourite photograph?
I am a diehard Adelaide Crows fan. In 2017, after over 15 years of unwavering support, expensive memberships, many near misses and subsequent heartbreak, we won a preliminary final against Geelong sending us to the grand final the following week. This photo was taken of me in the moment as the final siren sounded. Unfortunately, I’ve yet to experience that same level of elation from a football game since, but remain hopeful.
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be?
I’m not going to pretend to know anything about visual art, so I’ll just take Van Gogh’s, The Starry Night, please.
Here’s $500. What are you buying?
I’m a sucker for technology and gadgets – especially for things that I don’t really need. With a guilt -free $500, I’d probably get myself some Meta AI glasses.
A restaurant in SA you’d recommend?
I love Rosemont Hall in Prospect. The food and the vibe are always exquisite.
Favourite way to unwind?
I consider myself a massive cinephile – I can watch films all day, so it is probably no surprise to hear that watching movies is my favourite way to unwind. Specifically, at home, on the couch, in a dark room, rediscovering a favourite of mine.
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What was the last film/tv show you watched?
The last film I watched was actually a rewatch. I revisited Charlotte Wells’ incredible directorial debut Aftersun with Paul Mescal. The power this film contains in the unsaid is so impressive to me. When I saw it on release it absolutely broke me and that wasn’t lost the second time around either.
Last book you read?
Claire Keegan’s novel Small Things Like These. I am such a sucker for Irish stories. Incredible.
Last song you listened to?
I’ve checked my Spotify account and it looks as though it was Mardy Bum by Arctic Monkeys.
Till the Stars Come Down runs at Holden Street Theatres, The Studio from May 26– June 13.
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