Roger that

Tell us about you – what are you passionate about in terms of your performance work?

New Australian work! I love being able to support new voices and contribute to the growing Aussie canon. My background is in musical theatre, so I’m especially fond of new musical works. I love to help out with development workshops and indie productions of new shows whenever I can. We get a lot of big international shows touring Australia (which are incredible!), but I’d love to see some more homegrown musicals and Indigenous stories up on the mainstage.

When did you first learn about Evonne Goolagong Cawley?

Evonne was a generation or so before me. I’d certainly heard of her growing up, but I mostly learnt about her alongside Ash Barty’s rise to Wimbledon glory. They’re both such incredible women and incredible athletes, and a huge inspiration to all Australians.

What does Evonne's story mean to you?

Evonne’s story is really close to home for me – literally! As a kid that grew up in the same part of the country, part of the same mob, who is also off chasing their dreams in the big scary city, with the love and support of everyone back home, it helps me believe in myself.

Lincoln Elliott with Ella Ferris and Katina Olsen. Photo: Paz Tassone

What were your first thoughts when you read Andrea James’s script? 

Ooh, boy … I’ve got a lot of characters to play!

Tell us about your central character. What drives them? 

Roger is a tireless supporter of Evonne. He does everything he can to uphold and uplift her. He’s also very smitten, but is a patient and respectful suitor. Some have even called the character ‘sexy and considerate,’ which I’m quoting at every opportunity. Roger is a beautiful reminder to champion, empower and support the women in our lives.

‘There’s a lot of film and theatre that explores Indigenous trauma, and it’s been a very affirming experience telling a beautiful story that instead explores Indigenous excellence and triumph.’

Lincoln Elliott with Ella Ferris and Katina Olsen. Photo: Paz Tassone

What’s the most exciting aspect about working on Sunshine Super Girl for you? 

The joy of the play! It’s such an uplifting and celebratory story, which is equally uplifting and wonderful to work on, and alongside such a beautiful cast and crew. It’s important to us as a completely First Nations cast to have ownership of the story. There’s a lot of film and theatre that explores Indigenous trauma, and it’s been a very affirming experience telling a beautiful story that instead explores Indigenous excellence and triumph.

And finally, how good is your tennis game? 

I enjoy playing, but to be honest it’s not great! My serve is pretty garbage and I’m a notorious over-hitter – I’ve lost a LOT of tennis balls over fences in my time. Jax Compton and I have had a couple of hits while we’ve been on tour, and she completely destroyed me every time. I did manage to get a couple of good returns past her though!

Sunshine Super Girl is on stage until 16 December at Southbank Theatre.