Acting Teacher - Lisle Jones

STAGES with Peter Eyers

I once heard Lisle Jones remark "I am married to the Theatre, but the Ballet is my mistress!" He is a man who relishes any discipline as long as it can produce a good story with clarity, passion and skill. An accomplished actor and director, he is from a school where you served an apprenticeship, learning how to craft your work on the job. By watching senior actors and devouring any experience that came your way. His was a time when an Australian actor would be obliged to travel to England to carve a career and further opportunities. After a time in London, in various roles, he was drawn back to Australia with a unique proposition - the opportunity to head an actor-training course in Western Australia. For 12 years Lisle Jones oversaw the Acting faculty at The West Australian Academy of Performing Arts and the training of countless successful graduates. His students included Marcus Graham, Frances O'Connor, William McInnes, Robert Taylor and Hugh Jackman. At age 88, he continues to teach acting ... a craft in which, he says, "you can never stop learning" ...... he is driven by his passion, an immense curiosity and a desire to make the actor the best they can be. Lisle has immense knowledge, an opinion on everything and many wonderful anecdotes. For those who know Lisle, you will find this conversation enlightening, great nostalgia and re-affirming - if you are about to meet the man - sit back and enjoy. You are in for a treat!