Who is Malia Walsh?
Depending on the day, I could be 3 very different people, one part of me makes wholesome children shows which are designed to inspire kids while making them laugh because I have kids of my own.
Another part of me is a late night cabaret performer, she is a force of nature who drinks martinis, wears sequins with fish net stockings and idolises May West. Finally the farmer, who can mow an acre in 27 minutes on her orange tractor complete with steel cap boots and overalls.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I wouldn’t change a thing, I adore being in the arts and never knowing what’s next for me. It is a bit scary as I don’t have job security and I can’t make any plans but that’s part of the thrill. My life isn’t a river, it’s an ocean… I never know which direction the wind or current will take me.
Who inspires you and why?
I get inspired by the little things, like when someone is nervous but they do it anyway… you hear their voice crack or that long deep exhale. You see the real person for a second, you see them push through something. It inspires me to always to the hard thing, always push yourself to be a little bit more.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I really believe that art makes the world a be er place, seeing work helps you understand someone else’s perspective, it educates, it elevates, it brings us together. I would love to see people attend art on the same level as they attend sports.
Yes, sports is a great connector but art celebrates different kinds of people… not just the young and the strong and the fast. Seeing art whether you a end live music, art galleries, museums or live theatre will blow your mind every me, even seeing art you don’t like only strengthens your sense of self. It pulls the community together in a way which is powerful, positive and necessary.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I never know where I’ll be booked next and I LOVE that. I’ve recently been in Mildura, Frankston in May, Osaka in June and Scotland in August. Either I’ll see something stunning or I’ll be able to meet some legends (I’m talking about you Southside) and either way I’m delighted!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Depending if my friend is a glamour puss or and energiser madman I would either take them to Peninsula Hot Springs or a hike to Werribee Gorge. Either way I love to show off the natural wonders of Victoria. Gumtrees and the call of a magpie (to me) are iconic and an absolute must.
What are you currently reading?
My son and I read a page from the Encyclopaedia of Dangerous Animals every night. Cassowary is our favourite.
What are you currently listening to?
Eurythmics.
Happiness is?
An outdoor bath in the rain with a glass of red.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m pretty excited about attending the Worlds Fair in Osaka in June, to showcase our work in the Australian Pavilion is such an honour and I’m so incredibly proud of the work we have made. Beyond that who knows… I could be in heels in Las Vegas or the gumboots at the Kyneton show! Either way, I’m thrilled!
Malia directs Cheers (16 & 17 May) and The Farmy Farm (17 & 18 May) – presented by Circus Trick Tease as part of the 2025 South Side Festival at the Frankston Arts Centre. The South Side Festival runs 8 – 18 May 2025. For more information and full program, visit: www.southsidefestival.com.au for details.
Image: Malia Walsh – photo by Soda Street