Who is Gerard Pigg?
Gerard Pigg is a happy, friendly, loving, positive and passionate man who loves to live life to its fullest. He is a lover of all things dance and strives to be the best that he can be. He is dedicated and driven and is a versatile performer/entertainer that specialises in Commercial, Hip Hop, Bollywood and Heels.
When he’s not dancing he’s a big socialite and loves to spend time with his family and friends. A few of his favourite things include having a night out in town with friends, going to the movies, bowling, singing his heart out at karaoke, going to the beach & even just watching TV on the couch. As long as he’s enjoying himself, that’s all that matters.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
To be completely honest, I don’t think I would do anything differently. I am very proud of my journey and I love where I am in life. I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today, I’ve been blessed with many opportunities, I’m surrounded by the most incredible people who I love and I’m happy! If I really had to choose, I would probably love to have travelled more by now, but definitely have plans to do so in the future.
Who inspires you and why?
I have many inspirations in my life and for all different reasons. As a dancer and performer, I look up to many artists and choreographers, mainly LA based dancers such as Brian Friedman, Jojo Gomez, Yanis Marshall, Parris Goebel to name a few. I’ve always had a dream to share the stage with international artists as a back-up dancer, or even as a choreographer.
But my main inspiration, who I’ve loved since I was a kid is Missy Elliott. She always had such a unique approach to music and entertainment. I connect with her as a queer artist and she’s always unapologetically been herself – which is something I always try to do. I normally don’t like to conform & it’s very much a question of why blend into a crowd when you can stand out? She is a big inspiration!
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would continue to do what I always do, which is to be kind, spread love and show acceptance. There is so much going on in the world and showing some kindness can make such a difference. You never know what someone’s going through and a simple smile or hug can change someone’s day. The world is forever changing and we need to encourage each other to live our best lives and enjoy it while we can.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My favourite destination would have to be Bali! I have been there nearly ten times now (which speaks for itself) and I absolutely love it! It’s super affordable, I love the hot weather and tanning & I’ve now made a lot of friends over there, which I consider to be my ‘Bali family’. Every time I go back, I get to catch up with them all and they always take me on road trips and show me around the islands. Also, I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t love staying in my own private villa and having my own pool! Haha.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
If friends were to visit, there’s no particular attraction I would take them to – I’d show them everything I can! Melbourne is beautiful and there’s so much to see and so much to do. We would definitely end up in the city and whether it be for shopping, going to some cool hidden bars or even just sitting back and taking in the scenery, there’s so much to see.
What are you currently reading?
I never get time to read books per say anymore, but from memory, the last thing I read was Twilight – don’t judge! ATM however, I am reading up a lot on mythology, astrology and horoscopes. We are currently prepping the latest Bass Fam Creative show ORACLE and it is based on the mythology behind all the zodiac signs – and the stories are amazing! You could say it is part research, but also such exciting stories and I love fantasy.
What are you currently listening to?
I listen to many genres of music, but my absolute favourites would have to be RnB/Hip Hop or anything 90s! I definitely try to keep up to date with new releases, but specifically at the moment, I am listening to the MATADOR soundtrack over and over again! Aside from the fact that is is THE BEST soundtrack, no bias, we also open at the Athenaeum Theatre next week so I constantly go through the choreography in my head and start getting into my character.
Happiness is?
Happiness is love, friendship, family & doing what you love.
Happiness is being your true authentic self, enjoying every day and knowing that you’re doing the best that you can.
Happiness is smiling, laughing and creating memories with your loved ones.
Happiness is achieving goals, pushing yourself to try different things and new experiences.
Happiness connecting with audience members through your art.
Happiness is living your best life.
What does the future hold for you?
BIG THINGS! Haha… I always like to push myself and challenge myself to do more and to achieve more. In the immediate future with Bass Fam Creative, we have a huge year in 2022 with ORACLE premiering in Melbourne and then Brisbane in January. After that we are going back to Adelaide Fringe in Feb March 2022 – and because as I said I am over achiever, I am performing in MATADOR at Fringe but also choreographing for ORACLE, also at Fringe!
From there I have so many exciting national tour dates for both MATADOR and ORACLE. As well as our first international season in Auckland! I am also super excited to start developing MEMOIRS – the latest instalment from the trilogy of love from Bass Fam Creative. This show will be a little bit special as I get to explore all my favourite genres and dance styles from commercial to hip-hop, Bollywood, heels and also bellydance!
I will continue to teach and perform with Sapphire Dance; my Bollywood dance fam. I am also working on a few concept videos as well as some exciting personal projects that are currently in development, but let’s save that for next year’s ‘On The Couch’ Haha! As cliche as it sounds, dance is my life and I plan to keep dancing, performing, teaching and spreading love and passion through my art for as long as I can!
Gerard stars in the return Melbourne season of MATADOR – which plays the Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne: 1 – 4 December 2021. Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/matadortheshow for details.
Image: Gerard Pigg – photo courtesy of Bass Fam Creative