Andy Curtis Outhouse's Andy Curtis hopes the world one day understands, learns from and accepts people's differences rather than alienating and persecuting others for being different. Who are you and what's your background? I grew up in Herne Bay and Ponsonby with loving Liberal parents. I now work in the hospitality industry and have recently completed a degree in furniture design. What do enjoy most about The Outhouse, your new TV show? Firstly its a lot of fun and I love the whole team. Secondly I'm really excited to be able to discuss issues facing the gay community openly and in a positive way What characterises the New Zealand GLBT community for you? Being the first and only country in the world to have a trans-gender MP is pretty radical. Also the high level of inclusion and tolerance exhibited by the non-gay community towards us! What is the worst thing for you about being GLBT? Having such a small and openly gay community means its hard to find a partner and can make a Saturday night out a little dull at times. What is the best thing? Knowing and understanding who I am. Relationship status? Single Favourite food and drink? Fresh seafood, a Corona, and a glass of Kim Crawford wine. Worst habit? Not getting enough sleep Most noble feature? Bravado Favourite TV programme? Well I work nights so its hard to follow much on TV, but I did always enjoy Six Feet Under. Favourite movie? I like a lot of movies, but I'm always keen on a good psychological thriller. Qualities you most appreciate in a GLBT person? Honesty and integrity; the qualities I admire in all people regardless of sexuality. What are you reading at the moment? I've just finished The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell Who in the world including NZ would you most like to have a coffee and a chat with? Madonna. I grew up to her music and love how driven focused and successful she is. She is still cool in her 40's and has shown the world that being outrageously confrontational with her sexuality doesn't mean you don't know how to settle down and raise a healthy happy family. Role models? My parents. What is the most pressing issue currently facing the NZ GLBT population? Ensuring all gay people allow themselves to be who they are, without fear of persecution If you could have one wish granted what would it be? World tolerance! I know it sounds like a Miss World contestant answer, but it really does encompass the idea that the world may one day understand, learn from and accept the differences in people rather than segregate, alienate and - worse still - persecute others for being different. GayNZ.com - 21st September 2005