1:1 Chat with Robert Tripolino

The 1:1 Chats are a monthly online interview series delving into craft and process with industry professionals across the spectrum of disciplines. This month’s conversation will be led by musical director, composer & MTW Co-Director, Loclan Mackenzie-Spencer.

Born and raised in Geelong, Robert started his career as a musician, playing guitar and keys for local bands in both Geelong and Melbourne. He has been working as an actor since graduating from the Victorian College of the Arts when he was 21, performing on stage in Australia and London's West End.

Most notably in his career are principal roles such as Omar in Disney Australia's Aladdin, Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar at London's Barbican Centre, and most recently playing Roger in Rent at the Sydney Opera House.

Robert has also made screen appearances in ABC's Upper Middle Bogan, Channel 10's Mr and Mrs Murder and Neil Armfield's acclaimed Australian film, Holding The Man.

Also a songwriter, Robert scored the music to Dreamsong, a new Australian work that played at Melbourne Arts Centre and as part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Other writing credits include Guilty Pleasures and Death Suits You. Currently, Robert resides in Geelong, where he is involved in the refurbishment of the Palais Theatre, a 1920's art deco venue that is reopening as an entertainment venue in the centre of Geelong.