Shiplife... Nah, not for me

I never thought I would ever work on a cruise ship - ever. Towards the end of my time training at the Royal Academy of Music, entertainment and cruise companies came in for workshops and auditions. I remember I kept saying to friends that I was not the slightest bit interested. Shiplife... Nah, not for me.

Fast forward a couple of years, I was working on some exciting jobs and was about to embark on a house move. My agent phoned and (again) asked if I would be interested in world tours or cruise jobs; I said no but I think I secretly wanted to say yes. I have been lucky to travel with family around the world and also by myself around Australia and Thailand. My fondest memories are from backpacking around the East coast and drinking until the early hours from buckets at the Full Moon Party in Ko Pha-ngan. But... Cruise life, world tours, travelling, adventures... Nah, not for me.

I was in a long term relationship at the time and we were just about to move to our new house - not in a position to up and leave on a flight to work in Australia.

Having said that, my agent had planted a seed in my mind about working abroad and I couldn't forget it. My mind went wild; imagining myself working in theatres all over the world, touring different countries, endless possibilities of my career and life. Performing whilst travelling... surely that would be the dream job. However, I felt torn - could I leave, put my life on hold and return eight months later?

A week later, another phone call from my agent. Finally I agreed to audition.

I got the job.

Employed by P&0 Australia, working with Grayboy Entertainment was a dream. I felt an instant respect and connection with the team. Stepping into rehearsals, walking on to the ship and creating my new home in my cabin was exciting and freeing. Finishing our opening show was magical and walking along the top deck under the stars; vast ocean surrounding me, I sensed a peace and calm. Something I hadn't felt in a very long time. 

Let's fast track to 2018; I now work with Princess Cruises, perform incredible Stephen Schwartz shows, am creatively challenged and hone my craft. All of this whilst travelling around the globe.

So shiplife... Apparently IS for me. I don't have a clue what the universe will dangle in my face next, but for now, this is where I am supposed to be.