Who is Josipa Draisma?
I am a multidisciplinary artist, cultural leader and creative producer working across theatre, music, visual art and film. I am currently in rehearsal for the premiere season of my latest major work called The Hen House, a theatrical musical romp with storytelling set in the late 70’s that explores themes of class, migrant diaspora and feminism set in the strange and bloody world of a chicken processing factory. I’m also a doting Mama to my cheeky four-year-old son and I proudly come from a large and loud (food-loving) Croatian family.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I’d probably be a painter or an art deco antique dealer.
Who inspires you and why?
My Mum inspires me everyday. She is the most resilient, kind, empathetic, funny and dynamic person I know. She continues to teach me the importance of forgiveness and how to laugh especially during hard times.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Play an active role in breaking down systemic and structural barriers for culturally diverse women to crack their cultural glass ceilings so that they can attain leadership roles.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Paris for its rich history, romance, architecture, art, fashion, culture and food.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them on a food safari in and around Marrickville and catch a live gypsy jazz gig at the Camelot Lounge.
What are you currently reading?
The Dreaming Path – Indigenous Thinking to Change Your Life by Paul Callaghan with Uncle Paul Gordon.
What are you currently listening to?
My show The Hen House features original music inspired by 70’s rock, so for inspiration I’ve got on high rotation my ‘Hen House’ playlist which includes some killer tracks by Sherbet, Zoot, Skyhooks, Tina Turner, Stevie Wright, Pink Floyd, Creedence Clearwater Revival and Renee Geyer.
Happiness is?
Being at Bulli beach on a warm sunny afternoon eating ice-cream after a day of swimming with my son, husband and family.
What does the future hold for you?
More art making, landing my dream leadership job, travel and raising my young family.
Josipa is the Co-Creator of The Hen House – which will have its world premiere season at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres from 7 – 9 September 2023. For more information, visit: www.riversideparramatta.com.au for details.
Following the Riverside Theatres season, The Hen House will tour to Camden Civic Centre (13 – 14 September), Orange Civic Centre (16 September), The Art House, Wyong (20 September) and the Civic Pavilion – The Concourse, Chatswood (22 September).
Image: Josipa Draisma (supplied)