One Plus One: Baz Luhrmann

Baz Luhrmann is the guest in ABC News 24’s interview series, One Plus One, interviewed in a dressing room during a break on Strictly Ballroom rehearsals.

This year One Plus One has moved to a different format, featuring a single guest, interviewed each week by presenter Jane Hutcheon.

“We realised that featuring three interviews left viewers wanting more,” said Hutcheon. “Now each guest has an entire half-hour program.”

So far, the new season has interviewed musician John Butler, author Jackie Collins and controversial columnist Andrew Bolt. Next week it features Suzi Quatro.

“We try to feature a really diverse range of individuals,” says Hutcheon. “The interview style is relaxed rather than confrontational, giving time to explore and engage the thoughts of our guests. After interviewing Geoffrey Rush in January, the actor told me that he had enjoyed being in a ‘little bubble’ with the conversation flowing freely. That’s what I try to do; create a bubble for half an hour or so, so that the audience can get an insight into our guests. For me, as an interview, there’s always so much to take away every time.”

This week’s guest is director, screen-writer and producer Baz Luhrmann, whose production of Strictly Ballroom – The Musical opens next month (March).

Baz Luhrmann is a man with plenty going on in his head and in his career. He works closely with his wife, designer Catherine Martin, who recently won two BAFTAs for production and costume design for The Great Gatsby. She’s also nominated for an Academy Award this year. The Oscars will be held on March 2, 2014.

Friday at 8.30pm on ABC News 24.