Who is Kate Gaul?
I’m a freelance theatre and opera director living in Sydney. I am also Creative Producer and Artistic Director of Siren Theatre Co – an independent theatre company that has afforded me the opportunity to create work, build audiences and partnerships as well as work in venues that I might not have otherwise. At the moment I am extremely fortunate to be presenting our zany version of H.M.S Pinafore at Sydney Festival.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t change much except perhaps travel more. I think our isolation in Australia is both a virtue and a curse. Travel allows me to experience incredible civilizations, lifestyles and ideas. There’s nothing like seeing art, for example, inside the culture in which it originates. So I guess if I could do it all over again I’d be more prudent financially and put that resource into a lot more travel.
Who inspires you and why?
I draw inspiration from the artists I work alongside. When people are genuinely creating something out of nothing whether it’s for a production, in a class, or a rehearsal room it’s a genuine pleasure and privilege to be present. Curiosity is a huge inspiration.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Show kindness and respect; seek knowledge and grow vegetables.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
That’s a tough one! Before recent political events I would have said Hong Kong – I love the diversity and density of the population; the food, the art, the buzz and the proximity to China which is its own adventure!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
White Rabbit Gallery without a doubt. It’s an incredible gift to this city in a beautiful part of town. Sampling the exhibitions, taking tea and dumplings in this outstanding building is totally unique.
What are you currently reading?
Richard Flanagan’s The Living Sea of Waking Dreams
What are you currently listening to?
To mark the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth in 2020, pianist Boris Giltburg created a project which will see him learn all 32 Beethoven Piano Sonatas, the majority of which are not currently in his repertoire. I tune in on youtube.
Happiness is?
A full house, laughter, tears, applause.
What does the future hold for you?
Making more theatre, more travel (hopefully) and more energy!
Kate will be presenting her zany version of H.M.S Pinafore at Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres as part of the 2021 Sydney Festival: 13 – 23 January. For more information, visit: www.sydneyfestival.org.au for details.
Image: Kate Gaul (supplied)