Who is Katrina Mathers?
I’m in perimenopause, so who knows. Half the time I can’t even remember my name. I think I’m a mum, artist, filmmaker, and actor-writer type. But currently I’m also an angry, sweaty, door-slamming mess, two-time cancer survivor with a cheese boob and a blind eye. And apparently, I have a twenty-year, love-hate relationship with my Dyson vacuum cleaner which also made me write a Melbourne International Comedy Festival show.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
Anyone who knows me knows I already have probably about twelve-too-many careers already. I juggle a lot, have my finger in a lot of pies so to speak. But I think in a different life, with options for a different kind of path or career, I’d honestly wind up doing exactly the same thing.
Who inspires you and why?
Anyone with zest, hunger, curiosity, spirit, morals, generosity and drive. And funny people who find things perplexing and enjoy long, loud, discussions about those things… and cheese.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Smile at strangers. Most people smile back. And sometimes, that’s all I think you need in a day. To share a little moment of friendliness and warmth with another human being. Pretty simple. But what if everyone did that?
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Oh, probably Gili Air. Because usually if we’re there, it means I have time off with my family. There are no powered vehicles, just bicycles and horses. It’s an Island small enough to walk around in a day. Always great to meet travellers from around the world, keen to just lay back on a beanbag, share sunset drinks and chat about the day’s adventures.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I live in St Kilda, so there’s a bit to see. We’d start with a walk to a local café, enjoy some of that coffee that Melbourne is famous for. Maybe something at the beach – free yoga, or paddleboarding. If it’s warm enough, St Kilda pier for sure.
Meander through one of the galleries, grab an ice cream, spot a penguin, catch some live music, Cicciolina’s for dinner or maybe a steak night at Lion and Wombat, Bistro Vallière or Rufio. And if it’s not too windy, a ride on the Ferris Wheel to overlook the bay and the city lights, finished off with a late-night cocktail at one of our great local bars – Dawn and Mables, Lady Peacock, St Luja, Chronicles, Freddies, Lucien…
What are you currently reading?
A Different Kind of Power by Jacinda Ardern, Half Truth by Nadia Mahjouri and I try to read some of the Oscar-nominated screenplays each year.
What are you currently listening to?
Every single Tiny Desk Concert. How good are Tiny Desk Concerts? And my daughter introduced me to Reneé Rapp. We saw her live at the AO this year and I’m obsessed.
Happiness is?
Louder and closer than you think. But fleeting.
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully at least another forty years.
Katrina stars in Anything But The Dyson and Other Excellent Monologues – which will be presented at Trainscendence, as part of the 2026 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, from 26 March – 19 April. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Katrina Mathers (supplied)