“I am truly grateful to be in such a privileged and respected position”
Interview with Adrian Vanderdrift, manager-caretaker at Melbourne Latvian House.
What is your role and what are your duties at Latvian House?
I am the managing curator of Latvian House. The role encompasses the overall security, integrity, and the community’s ethos is guarded. The role is multi-faceted, and no two days are the same! I come from a very strong and significant background in professional theatre, television and film. My years in theatre have seen me manage large event entertainment complexes, these experiences have brought me here. As custodian of Latvian House, it comes with a high degree of responsibility and commitment. I cannot overstate the importance of making sure all the ladies are in check and taken care of each Saturday morning. God forbid should any thing go wrong in the mixture for pīrāgi!
Jokes aside, my role is not for anyone, there is so much that people do not see, neither should they. When I was offered my appointment by the executive, it was said that I would become the public face of Latvian House. Knowing what I do now, I am most proud to be so, it is an indicative honour. As stated, every day, situation, event and person I deal with is different. The role requires me to be flexible, creative, tolerant, adaptable and above all have the patience of
Job! My immense love of all things cultural are certainly met in abundance here.
What do you think of the various activities that take place at Latvian House over the course of a year?
I love the stimuli of the richness of the Latvian music that abounds and particularly enjoy and participate in the craft days. Seeing the beautiful children around is also a bonus. It is clearly evident that the Latvian community thrives on its incredible talents in the arts. This makes for a perfect job for me, getting this gig was meant to be! Yes there are elements that challenge me, however, like the saying goes – “take the good with the bad”. The people are friendly, respectful and courteous, this makes my position easier. This is a good thing that people are so friendly towards me. The people know that I am the manager and that I have their best interest at heart at all times. I have worked hard to gain respect at all levels, fortunately, I believe, this hard work has paid off. The Latvian community is a family, it has its elders and its minors, I am its minder and I do not mind its quirks. The Latvian ideals are driven by its heritage, this is clear, humble but honest and truthful, strength and humanity, faithful but determined. Interestingly, this has been my code in life too — I have led my life to this march and it has brought me to a new home. And for this I am truly grateful to be in such a privileged and respected position.
