Discover how Tasmania became the new home and inspiration for actress Marta Dusseldorp.
For Marta Dusseldorp, an acclaimed actress known for her versatility on stage and screen, the serene landscapes of Tasmania are more than just a backdrop; they are a source of inspiration. During an interview with Virginia Trioli on the sandy stretches of Kingston Beach, Marta shares her profound connection with this picturesque locale which she now calls home.
Moving away from the bustling city life marked a significant shift for Marta, yet she views it as a necessity for nurturing her creativity and maintaining a connection with her community. “Place and community are everything, stories connect me to the place, and I feel I can’t live without telling stories through drama,” she asserts.
At her residence, surrounded by nature and books, Marta reflects on her formative years immersed in ballet and acting, leading to her first television role at 29 in the show GP. Her journey included a pivotal tenure with the Sydney Theatre Company and its esteemed Actors Company. However, the demands of nightly performances proved challenging with family commitments. “You can’t tuck in your kids when you’re on stage every night,” she explains, leading to a decade in popular TV series like A Place to Call Home, Crownies, Janet King, and Jack Irish.
The transition to Tasmania was more than a lifestyle change; it marked a courageous career move. Alongside her husband Ben Winspear, Marta ventured into theatre production with their company, Archipelago. They have since produced numerous works, particularly at the historic 1837 Theatre Royal in Hobart, Australia’s oldest theatre. The pandemic further catalysed their creative output, inspiring the concept for their TV show Bay of Fires.
