Our Laner of the Week, John, has a fun backstory! He was born in Houston, Texas but grew up and was raised in Melbourne, Australia! So he’s an Australian? But he has been in NYC for 3.5 years now and is loving it! He’s an actor-singer-dancer who’s been lucky to work a lot in the musical theatre industry, both in Australia and the US. He’s been busy writing his first-ever dance play, which has now been performed here in NYC and in Melbourne! Let’s do a deeper dive into the world of Mr. Reed…!
What do you like about Mustard Lane or just working events in general?
I love getting to meet new people and make new friends, and also working at places I would normally not get to see, like the Bronx Zoo or the Circus!
When you’re not on the Lane…what are you doing?!
I spend my time teaching in some form or another, whether that’s kids or adults at a dance studio, or tour-guiding around the city; I also try to audition as much as I can and find any kind of creative project I can.
Favorite restaurant or food?
My favourite cuisine is Mexican, but my favourite restaurant in NYC is Shukette in Chelsea.
Looking ahead…anything you’re looking forward to in 2026?
I want to get off my phone and read more, create and dance for film more, and get more non-theatre hobbies ie. tennis/pickleball..
Share a favorite travel experience!
I just came back from Vietnam, which blew my mind! I had some of the best food I’ve ever had in my life there, and being able to get custom-tailored suits made for the first time was a huge high!
What’s your favorite way to spend a day off from the Lane?
Usually at a good coffee shop, drinking a flat white by myself or with a great friend..and..maybe during the summer: being at the beach…or any time of year: seeing theatre.
Any recent or favorite concert-going experiences?
Seeing Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden was pretty unforgettable. I cried as soon as he started playing ‘New York State of Mind’! Him playing that song in that stadium right after I moved to New York was a huge “pinch-me” moment.
What’s your hidden talent?!
I’m a pretty good ice skater (more speed than figure).
If you could have your dream job tomorrow – other than Laner of the Week – what would it be?
Performing in a Broadway show, don’t really know which one though.
What’s an essential part of your daily Laner routine?
My morning coffee! It is the first thing I do when I wake up.
What life lesson did you learn the hard way?
To actually say out loud what you want and to ask for it. You still may not get it, but to not even ask out of fear of the possible rejection is one mistake I do not want to make again.
What‘s something you look forward to this time of year?
I love NYC at Christmas time. It always looks so beautiful with all the lights and Christmas trees and music everywhere. It’s a magical time. The only way I can tolerate the cold.
Favorite Holiday dessert…GO!
Anything chocolate! A good Christmas hot chocolate with marshmallow and whipped cream is always satisfying.
Anything fun on that wishlist this season?
I would love some more track suit pants to keep me warm haha. But in all seriousness, continuous good food and good company.
What’s a brand or event that you would love to represent or work for as a Laner, should the chance ever arise?
I mean, the circus was pretty awesome. I would love to see that again or anything that would take place on a boat/on or near the water. I’m a beach rat!
How do you stay inspired?
By ingesting great art: theatre, visual art, movies, TV shows, books…and talking to people about it! Constantly thinking and talking about it also allows you to realise what you like and what you do not like and what you want more of in your life.
Any advice for someone looking to get started as a Laner?
Jump in with both feet! It is a great way to make new friends and connect with fellow artists. You never know where these connections will lead you, and you get paid to see and do some pretty cool things!
To learn more about John, check out his instagram @jdreeed.
If you’re looking to become a Laner, check out our step-by-step for submitting!