Who is Jane Clifton?
Jane is a WOW (#wiseoldwoman) who does a lot of things. She’s an actor in plays, films and TV – but who is only recognised for one TV role she played 43 years ago. She’s a singer – mostly rock and jazz, with one and a half hit records (80s) – who belts out ‘boomer rock’ once a week in Sth Melbourne. She’s a published writer of 3 crime novels, a memoir and an anthology of poetry. She’s always knitting, sewing or crocheting something, solving a Guardian cryptic crossword and, lately she’s been doing a spot of painting. To support all these hobbies, financially, Jane is a registered civil celebrant. Jane has 2 children and no pets. She does not dance.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would be a criminal barrister because I love an argument, I love a wig and would like to own a beach house in Walkerville South.
Who inspires you and why?
Articulate, brave, young women in third world countries standing up for women’s rights to education, freedom of movement and self-determination, against staggering, terrifying odds.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
My world-changing days are over. It’s time to put up and shut up and hand over the keys to the kids.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Dublin. For the Guinness, the poetry and the craic.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Royal Botanic Gardens – obviously. Wilson’s Promontory – 8th wonder of the world, unique, exquisite. The MCG on Anzac Day to observe war and peace in a family-friendly setting and to watch my team, Essendon, beat Collingwood by one point.
What are you currently reading?
Coming to the end of a Patricia Highsmith retrospective blitz that has included Deep Water and The Blunderer.
What are you currently listening to?
Juliet Stevenson is reading Pride and Prejudice to me via audible.com because I’ve only ever seen film and TV adaptations and never actually read it. My partner practicing the saxophone in the front room. Lockdown birdsong.
Happiness is?
A full tank of petrol, no debts and a juicy, paid job on the horizon.
What does the future hold for you?
More arthritis, a knee replacement, an Australia-wide tour of the fabulous Mrs Prime Minister, a new show based on my book of poetry A Day At A Time In Rhyme, the release of my new CD (recording it now)…. a Booker Prize, an Oscar, a Logie and a Grammy.
Jane stars in Mrs Prime Minister – which will be presented at Chapel Off Chapel as part of the 2021 Melbourne Cabaret Festival from 24 – 26 June. For more information, visit: www.melbournecabaret.com for details.
Image: Jane Clifton (supplied)