Ep347 - David Harris: Truth, Beauty, Freedom, Love and Belonging

The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

David Harris is an Australian actor who somehow found himself moving from architecture school to the bright lights of Broadway. He shares his early passion for architecture and how he pivoted to a career in performing arts just three days into his studies. He looks back on his journey, including participating in talent quests at RSL clubs in Australia and having friendly competitions with Broadway performer Ricky Rojas. Being in the workshop and eventually being cast in "The Boy From Oz" marked a significant turning point in his career and what he considers his claim to fame. He reminisces about his experience working with Hugh Jackman in the show, and a memorable commercial shoot with him just before New York shut down for COVID (click here to watch). David reflects on the differences in how musical theatre is perceived in Australia, the UK, and the US, his personal experiences with it, and his frustrations with the lack of recognition for musical theatre actors in Australia compared to Broadway performers in the US. He emphasizes the critical importance of swings and understudies in theatre, and his gratitude for them in keeping the show running smoothly. While he’s already managed to prove naysayers wrong, David has no plans on stopping when it comes to the pursuit of growth and constant learning.

David Harris is a native of Australia, where he's one of the most acclaimed leading men of his generation. In the US, he has received critical praise for his performance of Dan in TheatreWorks’ “Next to Normal”. He starred as Jean Valjean in the Connecticut Repertory Theatre production of “Les Misérables”, which was co-starred and directed by Tony Award winner Terrence Mann. He starred as Billy Crocker in Goodspeed's production of “Anything Goes” and as Father in Barrington Stage Company's “Ragtime” in 2017. He originated the role of Max Bronfman in Stephen Schwartz's new production of “Rags” at Goodspeed Opera House. After playing the role of the Duke on the first national tour of “Moulin Rouge” in 2022, he can now be seen playing the same role in “Moulin Rouge” on Broadway.

Connect with Brian:

• Website: www.davidharrisofficial.com
• Instagram: @davidharrisoz
• Watch David with Hugh Jackman

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