Who is Kaori Maeda-Judge?
Kaori is maybe the greatest thing to happen to Christmas since Santa. Born on Christmas day, Kaori’s Christmas present game for her parents has only gone downhill since her birth as nothing will ever be able to top the gift of her existence. Every other day that I’m not trying to come up with a better Christmas present, I’m a nomadic actor/creative existing in the live theatre and occasionally film and TV world.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Sometimes I wish I had picked up some more instruments and languages sooner but I don’t really regret anything, everything happens when it’s supposed to happen and I’m dedicating time to learning them now and probably picking them up faster now as a result because I really want to so, life is sweet, you know?
Who inspires you and why?
You know what, no single person does but I love watching artists who are in touch with the reason they started and you can see the love for their art pouring out of them and they’re not worried about money, or acclaim or any of the other business that can cloud your mind when your passion is your career.
I just got back from a month of backpacking Europe and the number of absolutely incredible street performers I saw who were just exuding the joy of making music and jamming with each other was awe-inspiring. Watching people enjoy making art is inspiring.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Well, I am an avid activist and find ways daily to stand up against discrimination in every sense of the word, so I don’t feel passive in making a difference in the world currently. I’m a firm believer in the fact that if everyone makes small efforts, together we can make big change. The same goes for climate change efforts as well.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I just got back from Italy and still feel like I didn’t spend enough time there so right now it’s Italia for sure! And why, the food! Obviously! Haha but also the beautiful and rich culture, the wonderful people, the fact that their language allows them to pronounce my name correctly!! What a treat haha I could go on and go so hit me up if you want me to get my slide projector out and tell you about my trip in detail.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Honestly, if friends came from international destinations I would try and convince them to come visit WA (where I grew up) because I think the best things Australia has to offer is it’s nature and rich First Nations history. So I would love to take them up and down the West Coast in a campervan and show them the most incredible sights of bushland and sea and take them on some wonderful tours I have experienced led by First Nations people.
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading a book by Toshikazu Kawaguchi called Before the Coffee Gets Cold, but I am reading it in its English translation and I think the meaning has been lost a little so I’m not totally sold, but I was thinking of re-reading it in Japanese next to see how it compares. TBC on how I feel once I’ve finished it.
What are you currently listening to?
It’s all Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter right now. Chappell for all my queer, pop, bop, pump me up, feel good vibes and Sabrina is hitting that sexy, cheeky, fun sweet spot ?
Happiness is?
Thriving in my independence, loving and respecting myself enough to do nice things for me, thinking I’m the sexiest and nicest person I have ever dated hehe
What does the future hold for you?
I hope there is a lot of cheese and wine hey!
Kaori stars as Jess in A Christmas Carol – which returns to Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from 22 November 2024. For more information, visit: www.christmascarolaustralia.com.au for details.
Image: Kaori Maeda-Judge (supplied)