Adam 'AK' Kelly

Can you share a bit about your background and what brought you to Adelaide? 

I was born and raised in Adelaide.

What are your interests outside of reviewing arts and entertainment? 

I am a collector of Music and Entertainment memorabilia. 

What’s your favourite thing about living in Adelaide? 

I would have to say the festivals. 

Do you have a personal mantra or philosophy that guides your work? 

Enjoy what you do and never forget were you started. 

Who or what inspires you most in life?

I am very inspired by family my father had lost is arm before I was born. So I was brought up with the theory if dad can do something with one arm I can do it with two .

What’s a surprising or fun fact about you that not many people know? 

That I do all of my photography work for free. People don’t understand why I go out of my way to support the arts for free.

What’s your ideal way to spend a weekend in Adelaide? 

Most of the time I will hop in the car with my camera and have a drive around the state finding interesting places to photograph. 

If you could only recommend one place to visit in Adelaide, what would it be? 

I would say the Botanic Gardens. Having a walk through the gardens on a nice sunny day is so relaxing. 

What’s a favourite book, movie, or song that resonates with you? 

If I had to pick I would say Dirty Dancing. I use to be a shy kid and when my sister was about to get married. We decided to surprise her with THE dance. It also gave me a lot of confidence as well.

What advice would you give to someone looking to explore arts and entertainment in Adelaide? 

Adelaide is known for its festivals and entertainment. Most of the performers in Adelaide are always ready to help out with concerts. 

What inspired your passion for arts and entertainment in Adelaide?  

My brother inspired me as a kid with his band. My father and I would help get him gigs and get the word out in selling tickets. 

What’s your favourite event or venue in Adelaide? 

It would be the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. I have had the privilege of performing there as well as seeing lots of amazing performances there.

What’s been your most memorable arts experience in Adelaide so far? 

It would have to be seeing KISS live at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. 

Do you have a specific focus area, like music, theatre, visual arts, or festivals? 

My main focus  these days are with the Festivals and live music. 

What’s one underrated event or artist in Adelaide you think deserves more attention? 

There are so many talented bands in Adelaide that have original music it is hard to pick one.

How do you stay connected with the local creative community? 

Most of the time I go through social media.

If you could interview any artist or performer, who would it be and why? 

It would have to be Anthony Warlow. He is an amazing entertainer and very inspiring  

What’s your go-to spot in Adelaide for creative inspiration or relaxation? 

I normally go down to Glenelg and walk around the beach and shops.

How do you see the arts and entertainment scene evolving in Adelaide over the next few years? 

Adelaide is the city of festivals and has grown over double the size in the last ten years. I can’t imagine how big it is capable of being.