The Quiz: Artistic Director of Circus Oz Rob Tannion

This week, The Weekly Review chats with Artistic Director of Circus Oz Rob Tannion about all things Melbourne.

First memory of Melbourne?

The Prahran Markets. I came back here in 2011 (I’d been out of Australia 23 years) to direct a show for the National Institute of Circus Arts.

Best thing about living in Melbourne?

It’s the cultural hub of Australia.

Worst thing?

The bloody weather. I’ve never lived in a city that can change 20 degrees in a day.

Melbourne’s best-kept secret?

The Merri Creek Yarra River trail. It’s an amazing feature for a city – untouched beauty at its doorstep.

Melbourne’s most underrated suburb?

Northcote. I haven’t been here long enough to know if it’s rated or not rated, but I like it.

Best takeaway?

The pork belly ramen at Shop Ramen on Smith Street, Collingwood. It’s absolutely amazing.

Quick, almost time to open! Serving from 5:30pm ? ? @stephen_sun

A post shared by SHOP RAMEN (@shopramen) on Aug 20, 2017 at 12:21am PDT

Guilty pleasure?

Coles’ macadamia and caramel ice cream. It’s actually good.

The best cafe in Melbourne is …

Uncle Drew’s on Noone Street, in Clifton Hill.

How would you make Melbourne better?

I’d try to improve the public transport across the city. It’s easy to get in but if you want to go across town, it’s a nightmare.

Who would you like to bump into on the street and why?

Nick Cave. He’s a Melburnian, I’m a massive fan of his and many years ago, when I was living in London, I jumped in on a music video of his, 15 Feet Of Pure White Snow. It was great and he’s a legend.

Your idea of a great night out?

Discovering a show; taking a punt and seeing a comedy show that I don’t know.

Favourite building in Melbourne?

The Circus Oz home base, on the old polytechnic site in Collingwood. We’ve got a purpose-built circus building, which is actually a beautiful architectural building; it’s modern yet maintains the feel of the old site.

Best exercise in town?

Running or cycling down the Merri Yarra Trail.

Go …

Bombers!

Most recent discovery?

The Carlton Library, in RMIT – it’s just beautiful.

Describe Melbourne in three words …

Culture, sport, lifestyle.

• Circus Oz’s Model Citizens is touring throughout 2018. Details: www.circusoz.com