Tilda Cobham-Hervey is one to watch. The only problem is, she’s in a few places at once right now…
The Adelaide-born actor just starred in Netflix’s smash Belle Gibson biopic, Apple Cider Vinegar. And this weekend, at Womad, she’ll unveil Dear Stranger, an interactive installation co-produced with Sydney-based production company Monstera Creative, in which festivalgoers can pen a letter of encouragement to a complete stranger, and receive one in return.
Ahead of the festival, she spoke to Broadsheet about her Womad picks, her favourite spots to eat and drink around town and more.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Tilda Cobham-Hervey. I’m an actor, writer, and director, which sounds very official, but mostly it means I love making things and being a part of sharing stories. I started in the circus, so I have a deep respect for controlled chaos. I also love dad jokes, long walks, and a good cup of tea.
What do you love most about Adelaide?
The people. Always the people. There’s this beautifully tight-knit, wildly creative arts community in Adelaide – one that feels less like an industry and more like a big, eccentric family where everyone shows up for each other. It’s a place where you can dream up something strange and wonderful, and there will always be someone saying, “Yes, let’s do it.”
What’s your favourite thing about Mad March in Adelaide?
That everyone comes out to see and celebrate art. Every nook and cranny of the city gets taken over by weird and wonderful things. There’s this sense that anything could happen.
What acts are you most excited to see at Womad?
I am really excited to see Nils Frahm, PJ Harvey and Restless Dance Theatre’s Seeing Through Darkness. The thing I love about Womad is that it’s often the act you have never heard of that becomes your new favourite band.
What’s the biggest thing you miss about South Australia when you're away?
The people. There’s a real sense of community in South Australia that I miss when I’m away. Also, how everything’s just 15 minutes away. I love being able to get to a beautiful beach or be on a hike in the Adelaide Hills in the time it would take me to drive to the closest supermarket in Los Angeles!
What are some of your favourite spots to eat in Adelaide?
Top would be my dad’s kitchen. After that, The Central Markets. Ever since I was little, we have gone to the markets every Friday night and it’s a tradition I try to keep up. My top picks would be Lucia’s and Asian Gourmet. I also love Cafe Troppo and going to The Scenic and watching the sunset.
Favourite Adelaide bar or pub and what you’re ordering?
My favourite bar is Loc Bottle Bar. Such a lovely team and such delicious wines and snacks. I would be ordering whatever they are serving! I also had a hilarious time at Bar Peripheral recently. It’s a tiny hidden bar that has 12 seats. You get chicken soup on arrival, which made me very thrilled. I would be getting a Martini with a twist.
Favourite date night spot in Adelaide?
That’s hard. I love trying out new places. I feel like so many excellent spots have popped up recently. My go-tos would be Golden Boy, Shobosho, La Louisiane, Leigh Street Wine Room or Arkhe.
What’s one of Adelaide’s most underrated places?
Some of the walks around Morialta and Belair are so beautiful and feel like the kind of thing you forget to visit as a local. And Port Willunga is so special.
