Meet Martha from 15 Thompson Street

Meet Martha, systems manager and independent theatre director of Democracy Repair Services, a play in Melbourne’s 2025 Fringe Festival. 15 Thompson Street's design has allowed them to live comfortably in their one-bedroom apartment, thanks to the building's shared spaces, and create a broad range of social relationships with their neighbours.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Martha: There's nothing that brings me more joy than being surrounded by art, which is great, as it's everywhere: from live theatre and music, to painting, street art, civic murals, and architecture.

Cooking is one of my passions – my neighbour and I have formed a food support group so we cook together once a month to share with our neighbours. I'm also a member of the building's Chicken Care Group!

What do you love about your apartment?

M: Weird answer, but how deep the cupboards are - we moved from a two-bedroom to our one-bedroom here, and I am amazed at how much stuff we can fit in.

What have you enjoyed about living at 15 Thompson Street?

M: I love living here: catching my neighbours when we are collecting herbs from the rooftop for dinner, running into all the puppies, making dinner together, getting invited to impromptu parties, and getting help with the pizza oven because I still don't understand what kindling is. I love knowing that any one of these people will stop in the walkway and ask how I’m doing and genuinely care about the answer.

There's a real sense of vibrancy and connection here. Why move to a quiet townhouse with five neighbours when I could have 200 people around me who genuinely care and engage?

You’re involved with Melbourne’s Fringe Festival: how has 15 Thompson Street’s shared spaces helped?

M: The communal room has been a total game-changer for rehearsals. It’s a flexible, well-equipped space powered by renewable energy. Having access to lighting, heating, kitchen facilities and even a divider to split the room has allowed us to rehearse efficiently and comfortably. It's on the ground floor, which means people have even dropped off cookies for the cast and to chat about the play!

The workshop has also allowed the crew and me to build props without taking up space on an apartment floor. Truly, we've felt like we're the Melbourne Theatre Company rehearsing here. I could fully present the play here if needed.

The building’s community has fully supported us in a way that every indie artist needs. Anyone have a hard hat? Five minutes later “Yep, I’m an environmental scientist you can use mine”. Empty spray cans? "No worries, take as many as you need”. A scooter? Covered.

What is your play about?

M: Democracy Repair Services is a gentle and heartfelt exploration of democracy, climate, and the endangered Bogong moth. It's like a warm hug for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world. Theatre is for everyone, and the play is also a hoot and a riot, so anyone who takes a chance on it will have an awesome time.

When you’re not busy directing, what are your favourite spots in and around Kensington?

M: There is a lot to love locally: Double Dutch for its incredible food, Nubulium Distillery across the road, and strolling the leafy streets with my partner. The Community Grocer at Debney Park is a must and has the best sambusas around. Kensington is welcoming, unintimidating and very community-oriented.

The location makes it easy to stay connected. I love catching up with people at The Courthouse Hotel in North Melbourne or visiting Schoolhouse Studios in Coburg. I used to live in Prahran and travelling to see friends in the north used to feel like a trek. Now it’s a 10-minute train ride or a beautiful 15-minute bike ride along Moonee Ponds Creek.