Person to Person: 'I'm a dreamer and never realistic'

Tell us about yourself;

I’m Pai Rathaya, a freelance set designer for theatre. I am currently working on The Sound Of Music at Cork Opera House. I trained at the Lir Academy. I want to live in Ireland, but I live in Bangkok right now. I’m a dreamer and never realistic.

Where were you born?

Australia.

Where do you live?

Bangkok.

Family?

Two parents, 18 cousins, and many uncles and aunties.

Best friend?

I lost count, but love them all.

Earliest childhood memory?

Watching The Sound Of Music with my cousins at grandma’s house.

Person you most admire?

People who can tolerate me, thank-you.

Person who most irritates you?

It’s a secret.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

All were memorable!. Especially the one I don’t need to pay for.

Favourite TV programme?

Morning news, boring, I know. I hate being an adult.

Favourite radio show?

Oh, I barely listen to the radio. I listen to podcasts!

Your signature dish if cooking?

Thai green curry with mushrooms.

Favourite restaurant?

In Cork - Miyazaki.

Last book you read?

Wabi sabi: Japanese Wisdom For A Perfectly Imperfect Life.

Best book you read?

Not the best, but the one that changed my life was Whatever You Think, Think The Opposite. I’ve given it to my 18 Asian cousins who can’t read English very well (it’s almost a picture book). I didn’t feel too much like a loser!

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Oh hahaha, I can’t remember. Probably something jazz.

Favourite song?

How do you solve a problem like Maria?

I sing the phrase, How do you hold a moonbeam in your hand?, when I lose my self-control.

One person you would like to see in concert?

My uncle, who introduced me to The Sound Of Music.

Do you have a pet?

Two beautiful golden retrievers.

Morning person or night owl?

Nightttttt.

Your proudest moment?

When I told my therapist about my evil side.

Spendthrift or saver?

I want to be a saver, but definitely spendthrift.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

OMG, everything, except food.

What makes you happy?

People. Friendship. Love. Caring. Smiling. Food. Sky and many more.

How would you like to be remembered?

Before I die: hire available! I love my job!

After I die: No need to remember me.

What else are you up to at the moment?

Trying to sleep eight hours a day and not feel guilty about it.

• Cork Opera House’s new summer musical, The Sound of Music, opens on Thursday, July 23, with tickets on sale now from the Box Office (021 4270022) and online at corkoperahouse.ie