The Vietnam War is still remembered through the era’s powerful songs. Christian Charisiou talks about playing a soldier in Rolling Thunder Vietnam.
Tell us about your role in Rolling Thunder Vietnam.
Christian Charisiou: I play Andy, a 21-year-old from Sydney’s Northern Beaches who gets drafted into the war. He’s on the road to discovering what destiny has in store and is very open-minded. He’s a curious man who questions everything and takes a lot in his stride. But his identity and purpose in life are thrown up in the air when he goes to Vietnam. The show explores his journey along with three other stories about finding one’s destiny.
Before taking on the role what was your knowledge of the Vietnam War?
I’ve always been curious about war in general and why humans go into them. I knew a bit about Vietnam and probably more than many from my generation, but it wasn’t as detailed as when I started Rolling Thunder. When I read the script the stories in there bewildered me, but finding out they were based on real anecdotes was mind-blowing. It was such a personal war to a lot of these young men and that’s what I learnt the most. I have more knowledge now regarding how different a lot of people’s stories and experiences in Vietnam were.
Christian Charisiou with Jerrod Smith and Sam Richardson in Rolling Thunder: Vietnam
Certain songs distinctly make up a Vietnam War playlist. Why do you think they seem even more popular now?
I think the music connects, even more, today because we don’t write songs like that anymore. There’s a song in the show called Eve of Destruction and it’s incredibly dense in lyrics. A lot of it is poetry and metaphor. These songwriters were poets expressing their political, moral and personal beliefs. It was about war and the cost of human life. I think it’s the complexity of the music and lyrics that make it all so profound.
What about the songs you sing?
As an example, I sing All Along the Watchtower by Bob Dylan and made famous by Jimmy Hendrix. It’s one of my all-time favourites, but even to this day I still don’t quite understand the metaphor behind it. It’s haunting and one of those great rock songs you want to sing along with.
“I have several gay uncles and it’s been incredible growing up with them in my life.”
As well as lead roles in Cry Baby and The Wedding Singer, you also played Nick in Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Is that role as taxing as it seems?
Yes, that show’s a marathon. It’s around three hours long but a profound experience and a gift to perform. I studied at NIDA and love a dense text, but not only did I have to learn my own lines, but also the other actor’s. Edward Albee wrote so intelligently, and you really have to understand the script for the character’s reactions to be organic.
Christian Charisiou
Have you played a gay role?
Not yet professionally but I’d love the opportunity. But I also think it’s time for queer artists to be able to play versions of themselves onstage and uplift their voices. The only experience I’ve had was in acting school when I chose to play Prior in the drag scene from Angels in America. I set myself the task to learn how to do my own drag makeup and explore the character who was experiencing AIDS taking over his body. It’s still a profound and dream role for me.
Do you hang out with your gay mates?
On my mum’s side, I have several gay uncles and it’s been incredible growing up with them in my life, especially being men of their generation. It opened me up to see it doesn’t matter what your sexual preference or gender identity is. It was something very early on that I always took in my stride. Many of my friends are queer and gender neutral and on the queer spectrum, and I love all their company. They’re amazing people and I’m totally addicted to them.
“I think it’s time for queer artists to be able to play versions of themselves onstage and uplift their voices.”
So, you’ve had some crazy nights out?
Have I ever! Once in Melbourne, my gay friends invited me to Circuit Bar. I remember the sun was coming up as I walked out. I don’t quite remember about my time there, but I do know it was a great time!
Christian Charisiou and the cast of Rolling Thunder: Vietnam
Who would you turn gay for?
I can’t get past Brad Pitt. I’d happily lick his abs! He’s still got them too!
What’s your irresistible burn-the-floor song?
I love disco so it’s hard to go past It’s Raining Men. As soon as it comes on, it’s game on for everybody! It makes you want to get your top off – especially at Circuit! And it must be The Weather Girls’ original. I don’t do covers!
“I learnt how to do my own drag makeup and explore the character who was experiencing AIDS.”
Who’s your music diva?
Adele. I don’t know any woman who currently has her presence. I saw her in concert, and she was unapologetically herself and obnoxious in the best possible way. Her vibe was like “I’m going to absolutely blow the roof off”.
Do you have a favourite quote?
I’d rather be pleasantly surprised than constantly disappointed.
Christian Charisiou as Andy in Rolling Thunder: Vietnam
As a NIDA graduate, what’s your advice to anyone wanting to enter the profession?
Never forget who you are in this industry, because fundamentally what makes you is unique and beautiful. That’s what you’ll be hired for. It’s easy to give in to what others want but sticking to how you want to do it will work wonders for you.
Who’s your biggest inspiration in the world of acting?
It’s a weird one, but Jim Carrey is my earliest memory of being inspired to perform. I watched Ace Ventura as a kid and thought if he can be that big and camp on screen, then there’s no reason I can’t be as big. When I saw Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, I was blown away.
Do you have a grooming tip?
If what you’re wearing makes you feel good, you’ll always look and feel good. And a good haircut is never too expensive. I’ve had many fifty-dollar bad haircuts but after a recent $120 cut I’ve never looked back!
“I’d happily lick Brad Pitt’s abs!”
What’s been your biggest onstage wardrobe malfunction?
There’s a scene in The Wedding Singer where I’m thrown into a dumpster after I destroy someone’s wedding. My pants were getting a bit big for me and because the crotch had dropped, they split! I was on stage for quite a while, so I had to walk around like a penguin with my legs closed. I had a giant gaping hole in my crotch! I was also down to my last pair of underwear, and they were pink. It’s very distracting seeing a pink crotch!
On the beach is it boardies or Speedos?
Speedos for a tan and boardies if I’m at a family beach. But if I’m near the water and want to swim, I’ll go in my underwear! I have no shame!
On that note, briefs, boxer briefs or free balling?
Briefs. For many years I tried boxers, but I don’t enjoy things riding up while I’m walking!
For more visit: rollingthundervietnam.com
Follow Christian on Instagram @christiancharisiou
