Who is Julia Hanna?
I’m an actress, piano composer, aspiring drama teacher and a full-time drama queen according to my family. A reoccurring quote from my mum: “She always keeps our life interesting; it’s never boring with Julia”.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t do anything different, I’m a firm believer in whatever happens, happens for a reason. Having said that if I was to choose another career, I would have loved to be an intelligence officer.
Who inspires you and why?
My friends and family inspire me. Most of my friends are artists, their talent and creativity inspire me to keep growing in this industry. They remind me how lucky I am to be a part of such a loving and accepting community. My parents have always been my biggest inspiration as they are the hardest working people I know. They are a constant reminder that great things don’t come easy, but if you put in the hard work anything is possible.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would make education free. Everyone should have access to it and be able to have the opportunity to be whoever they want to be.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
It would have to be New York. I lived there for eight months to study acting when I was nineteen. I lived in midtown in student accommodation, which meant living with actors 24/7. I remember there was just as much drama outside of the classroom as there was inside it. It was one of the best experiences of my life and is still my favourite city in the world to this day.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them to the Arts Precinct first! Show them our beautiful Arts Centre and maybe see a show there, or at one of our many independent theatres. I would also love to show them Melbourne’s night life. Fitzroy, Carlton and Brunswick are my go-to areas for my favourite bars and restaurants.
What are you currently reading?
A Light in the Dark by Allee Richards. Also just finished her previous book Small Joys of Real Life. Both stories are set in Melbourne too!
What are you currently listening to?
Olivia Dean, as well as Melbourne artist Soli!
Happiness is?
Being free to do what you love. Appreciating the simple things in life. Knowing who you are and being at peace with that.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m performing for the second time in Emily Sheehan’s Monument until 10 March at Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre.
Julia stars as Rosie in Monument by Emily Sheehan – which is currently playing at the Red Stitch Actors’ Theatre until 10 March 2024. For more information, visit: www.redstitch.net for details.
Image: Julia Hanna (supplied)