On the Couch with Tanya Gerstle

Tanya Gerstle Arts Review On the CouchWho is Tanya Gerstle?
Artistic Director of OpticNerve Performance Group.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
In my next life, I will be making human rights documentaries.

Who inspires you and why?
Strong, tolerant and quietly powerful women. As I’m currently working on The Mill on the Floss by George Eliot, I’m reminded of the generations of women that have fought and died for freedoms we take for granted.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I make theatrical events that tackle meaningful issues. If one person is touched and begins to question their assumptions a difference has been made.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere very hot and still.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Good food, good wine and stimulating conversation with friends and family around a table. Better than being a tourist.

What are you currently reading?
Everywhere I Look by Helen Garner.

What are you currently listening to?
Russell Goldsmith’s mesmeric compositions for the sound design of The Mill on the Floss.

Happiness is?
Happiness is to struggle in hope – Mary Henderson (my mum).

What does the future hold for you?
For the next 4 weeks I’ll be in a rehearsal room with my favourite group of talented, passionate people. It doesn’t get better than that.

Tanya will be directing OpticNerve Performance Group’s production of The Mill on the Floss at Theatre Works from 30 July to 13 August 2016. For more information, visit: www.theatreworks.org.au for details.

Image: Tanya Gerstle – photo by Lachy Woods