Originally trained as a medical doctor, Matt finally decided to give in to a childhood dream and pursue an artistic career after seven years of university and three years of working as a medical practitioner. After developing a reputation in the Queensland community theatre space, he decided to broaden his skillset with some of Australia's most reputable acting coaches and casting directors and began auditioning for theatre, film and television productions worldwide. His recent work includes the Foxtel/Binge original series ‘High Country’, the ABC miniseries 'In Our Blood' and the feature film 'Romance at the Vineyard’. In September he will be originating the role of “Jamie McKenzie” in the world premiere of “Cut Chilli” as part of the LaBoite Theatre Company's 2023 mainstage season.
Matt Domingo. Image: Tim Ross Photography.
1. Describe what you do in 100 words?
I draw from my lived experiences, genuine interest in people, and deep passion for music, movement, and dance to create my own distinctive interpretation of a character or script, bringing a unique and authentic perspective to a performance on stage or screen.
The more literal answer? I record videos of myself in front of a blue screen and send them to different people around the world hoping that they like me.
2. What’s your first memory of engaging with the arts?
This might not count as a first memory, but my mum loves to tell the story of how out of the three of us siblings, I had the strongest inclination towards singing and dancing as an infant. There was this one incident on the bus where the driver who clearly didn't have an appreciation for great talent, very impolitely asked my mum to shut me up. He was the first of many who tried to dampen my creative spirits, but none have succeeded to this day!
There is one unforgettable memory etched in my mind though – It was my very first time watching live theatre - "The Lion King" on Broadway, smack bang in the middle of the stalls. The whole show was a burst of colours, with incredible set designs, soul-stirring music, and a genuine heart that just swept you away. The entire team on that stage had this magical power to make you forget you were sitting in a theatre. It was like they whisked you away to a whole other world - you'd think you were right there in the Serengeti, surrounded by majestic animals. Everyone on that stage looked like they were having the time of their lives. That to me, is the essence of great theatre.
I've always had this burning desire to perform, but that moment was a turning point for me. The magic of that performance sealed the deal, and from that day on, I knew without a doubt that I had to be a part of this incredible world of performance.
3. How would you best describe your artistic practice?
Throughout my life, I've been genuinely fascinated by people—their values, beliefs, and the transformative experiences that shape who they are today. Ultimately it’s probably why I fell into the study of psychiatry for my specialty training (back when I was still a practising doctor). This profound interest in human psychology allows me to delve into the diverse and often concealed facets of my own being, enabling me to breathe life into captivating characters on stage or screen. I cherish every opportunity to express the depth of emotions and unique stories that resonate with audiences, painting vibrant and unforgettable portraits of humanity.
4. Can you describe your ideal collaborator?
Expressing and articulating my ideas can be challenging for me at times. However, I've been fortunate to collaborate with individuals who seem to grasp my thoughts effortlessly, understanding what I want to convey without me needing to say a word. My ideal collaborator isn't necessarily someone who has lived through the same experiences as I have, but rather someone who deeply values the significance and relevance of the story I wish to tell.
I seek a collaborator who can seamlessly fill the gaps and elevate the narrative. Whether it's through their dramaturgical skills, exceptional writing abilities, or their prowess as a director, their contributions enhance the overall vision. This synergy allows us to create a masterpiece that resonates with audiences and brings our collective vision to life.
Matt Domingo and Christen O’Leary in Cut Chilli by Chenturan Aran. Image: La Boite Theatre Company.
5. How do you manage work-life balance as an artist?
Navigating the early stages of building a successful artistic career can be especially tough. When gigs aren't yet flowing in consistently (a dream for the future), you often find yourself needing a 'survival' job to cover the bills between each opportunity, and sometimes even during them. This can easily lead to working over 60 hours a week, trying to balance career advancement and financial stability. As expected, burnout becomes a common struggle for many of us at this stage.
However, I've learned that staying grounded is essential during this chaotic phase. I make sure to prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep (this is a MUST), keep myself hydrated with at least 3L of water daily (yes, I carry a not-so-glamorous giant water bottle everywhere), and stay committed to strength training six times a week. Additionally, maintaining a diet rich in whole foods while limiting processed foods, sugar, and alcohol (the doctor mode never switches off) helps me stay physically and mentally strong.
But what truly keeps me going is making time for my loved ones, friends, and family. Even during the hustle of early career development, nurturing those connections is vital for a sense of balance and fulfillment in life.
6. How do you seek to improve and develop your practice?
To improve and develop my practice, I firmly believe in embracing a mindset of continuous learning and growth. Acknowledging that there is so much that I don't know, whether it's about myself, the world, or my craft, lays the foundation for my artistic journey. Even after booking a fantastic gig or receiving praise through reviews or feedback, remaining humble and grounded becomes crucial in my pursuit of excellence.
One of the ways I enhance my skills and understanding is by immersing myself in various forms of art. I make it a point to watch as many series, films, and theatre shows as possible. Each viewing experience becomes an opportunity to learn and grow, whether it's from the strengths of a well- executed production or recognizing areas for improvement in others. There's something to gain from every performance, be it positive or negative, as each contributes to my artistic development.
I also actively seek out feedback and constructive criticism from mentors, peers, and audiences. Welcoming input from others, even when it might be challenging, allows me to gain fresh perspectives and insights that can fuel my progress. It's essential to maintain an open mind and be receptive to feedback, as it serves as a powerful catalyst for improvement.
Lately, I’ve been prioritising ongoing training and workshops to refine my craft continually. Investing in myself through educational opportunities and collaborative experiences helps me stay at the cutting edge of my field. By continuously honing my skills and exploring new techniques, I can push
the boundaries of my artistic expression and bring even more depth and authenticity to my performances.
7. What time of day do you find yourself most creative and why?
I can’t truthfully answer this because when the creative impulse strikes, it can happen at any time! Unfortunately it does tend to happen most often when I’m laying in bed trying to sleep so I really should invest in a bedside pen and notebook.
8. Do you think art is important to society and why?
Of course. Art provides a means of escape and a way to enhance overall well-being. Whether through films, paintings, music, or literature, art has the power to transport people to different worlds, offering a temporary respite from the challenges of everyday life. Engaging with art can be therapeutic, allowing individuals to find solace and inspiration in its various forms.
Secondly, art serves as a powerful tool for opening audiences' eyes to new perspectives and experiences they might not encounter in their daily lives. Through storytelling, art enables us to see the world through the lens of someone else's journey, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of diverse cultures, struggles, and triumphs. It has the unique ability to bridge gaps and build connections between people from different backgrounds.
Art also plays a significant role in shaping societal norms and perceptions, which is of particular importance to me. Mainstream entertainment often dictates our standards of beauty, attractiveness, and acceptance. By promoting diversity and representation on screen, art can challenge these stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and accepting society. I’d like to think that in the future, when a young brown kid sees a successful, charismatic, and respected character (rather than one who is there for humour or belittlement) portrayed by a brown actor, they gain a sense of validation and realise that looking the way they do is not only normal but also deserving of respect and admiration.
Art has the powerful ability to foster empathy, create positive change on a large scale, and shape a more inclusive world that celebrates the uniqueness and diversity of each individual. It’s up to us to lead the way.
Matt Domingo in Control by Keziah Warner presented by Observatory Theatre. Image: Creative Futures Photography.
9. What is something you have created or a process you have been a part of that you are most proud of?
Recently, I had the opportunity to audition for a film by the talented Sydney based Sri Lankan- Australian writer, Shakthi Shakthidharan. To prepare myself thoroughly, I delved into his previous works, including 'Counting & Cracking,' immersing myself in the world he had created. Additionally, I took up the challenge of learning Bharatanatyam, a beautiful South Asian classical dance form.
Throughout this audition process, something remarkable happened. As I delved into Shakthi's works, I found myself exploring and learning more about the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture, especially the Sri Lankan Tamil heritage. My curiosity led me to discover the profound history of Sri Lanka and the impact of the Civil War, which had caused global displacement. I was deeply moved by the stories and experiences that I encountered along the way.
Regardless of the outcome of the audition, I will forever cherish this transformative journey. It not only pushed me to embrace a dance style rarely seen on mainstream stages but also encouraged me to reconnect with my own cultural roots. I am immensely grateful to this process for igniting my passion to learn more about my heritage, understand my history, and appreciate the significance of my cultural identity.
10. What are you working on right now, if anything?
I’m currently in between projects, so I’m back at the Department of Health working as a medical advisor for the therapeutic goods administration. But I’m looking forward to starting rehearsals for Cut Chilli at the LaBoite Theatre Company which starts rehearsing in August!
If you are or know of an artist that might like to feature in our Spotlight: 10 Questions series please send us an email to hello@thatproductioncompany.com.au.
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