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"Our children have to hear our stories in our own voices."

In Conversation with Jay Laga'aia – Actor, Children's Entertainer and Singer

In the third episode of For the Love of Play's third season, we chat with actor and musician Jay Laga'aia.

Jay discusses the joy and fun of a large family, the lessons he's learnt as a parent and the bittersweet moment of pushing a child's 'canoe' out into the open sea.

Beloved for his hosting role on the legendary Australian children's show Play School, Jay tells us how performing for children has taught him valuable life lessons.

The conversation also covers the wisdom of older family members, the importance of local television programming, the universal nature of music and much more.

About Our Guest

Jay is a proud Polynesian man who spent his youth in New Zealand before crossing the Tasman to begin his career in Australia as a performer. He started out acting in the primetime television program Water Rats, before starring in Hollywood blockbuster Star Wars, as well as Australian TV classics Home and Away and Play School. Alongside his time performing for early years audiences, he has played Mufasa in The Lion King musical, Vince Fontaine in Grease the musical and Shrek in the popular stage show.

• Jay's Instagram
• Jay on Spotify

Show Links

• Website: For the Love of Play
• Listen to all episodes: Buzzsprout
• Follow us on Instagram: @fortheloveofplaypodcast

Learn More About Playgroup Victoria

• Website: playgroup.org.au
• Instagram: @playgroupvicofficial
• Facebook: Playgroup Victoria
• LinkedIn: Playgroup Victoria

Episode Credits

Hosted by Mylie Nauendorf and Sinead Halliday.

Interview conducted by Sinead Halliday.

Edited by Jonathan Rivett.

Mastering by James North Productions.

Music by Selina Byrne.

And thanks to our little friends Laddy, Lucy, Toby, Andie and Adelaide for voicing the intro.

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