SINGAPORE — During our brief conversation with Stevie Nicholson, the 31-year-old used the word “positive” more than half a dozen times.

It’s not a word one commonly hears when one is surrounded by cynical, sleep-deprived working adults in the newsroom. But for Stevie, it’s simply impossible not to feel cheery and energetic — especially when his job for the past seven years has been to sing, dance and entertain children on the popular Australian children’s television show Hi-5.

“I’ve learnt a lot from kids and I often think they have taught me a lot more than I have taught them on the show,” said the Australian performer who, with the rest of Hi-5, will be here for a concert next month. “They are so appreciative of every moment, of sunshine, the water — they just make the most of everything. They are happy.”

He added: “If I learnt anything (from them), it’s not to take life too seriously. Being a kid is more fun and it’s a much better headspace to be in.”

Do their fans always expect to see someone who is super energetic all the time, even when they’re not on stage? “Yeah, I guess so. That’s what they know because you’re on Hi-5 — and on Hi-5, you’re singing and dancing. On any other TV show, you have people playing other characters. But I am Stevie on Hi-5 and, essentially, I am playing myself.”

According to Nicholson, what people see on camera isn’t far removed from who they are as people. “We may not be wearing these colourful clothes, but we are the same person and it’s quite nice when you meet the fans. All they want is a high five, a hug and a photo — and we are always happy to oblige with that.”

And we’re not talking just about kids. Hi-5’s audience also includes older fans. “That’s what’s incredible — a lot of these young parents grew up watching the show. That’s what’s special now — they can sing and dance to the same songs. I have been with the show for seven years and it is incredible: We get these teenagers or young parents coming up in Asia or Australia saying, ‘I remember watching you seven years ago!’”

But just how long will Nicholson be going strong with Hi-5? “I am still having so much fun with Hi-5. The cast environment at the moment is just at an all-time high. Everyone is so happy doing what we do and so appreciative of the fans.”

Of course, Nicholson isn’t just the all-singing, all-dancing bloke you see on TV. He also does some work behind the scenes. “I write on the show and I’ve directed some of the segments as well. So I have been fortunate enough to not just perform, but also work behind the scenes. As long as I live a creative life, I will be a happy guy.”

This is why Nicholson also chooses to surround himself with adult friends who share the same philosophy.

“I am unapologetic about being positive,” he said, laughing. “Because why would you choose to be anything else? I dig positive energy and that’s why I dig being on Hi-5!”

Hi-5 House Hits 2014 is on Dec 5 and 6 at The Star Performing Arts Centre. Tickets from S$45 to S$105 from SISTIC.