Janaki Gerard is an actor, writer, singer and dancer from Meeanjin who has worked in London and New York City. Janaki was a top twenty finalist in the Stellar South Asian Women of 2022 Australia. This August she will be a part of the original cast for the world premiere of “Item” presented by Dance Masala & Metro Arts Theatre. In 2022 Janaki joined Upside Down Media productions as a cast member and embarked on their 12 for 12 short film challenge; they filmed 12 short films over 12 months. In 2021 she was voted the audience choice award at the Brat Pack Comedy Competition. Her mission for the future is to develop more platforms & projects for South Asian creatives in Australia. Her performance credits include: "When Love Springs" Steve Jaggi Company. “A Wedding and a Murder” Fever Immersive Theatre, Laboite Theatre's Assembly Program, “As You Like It '' Anywhere Theatre Festival, “Honour” Queensland Theater Play club series, “Two Weeks with the Queen” Queensland Theater Play club series, “Tales from the Colony” Backbone Youth Arts, “Masala Monologues'' Rich Mix Theatre (UK) “An Enemy of the People” Union Theatre (UK) . She has an MFA in acting from East 15 acting school (UK). A BA in Journalism from Griffith University (AUS) and received her 200 hr yoga certification from the Rishikesh yoga teacher training centre (India).
Janaki Gerard. Image: supplied by artist.
1. Describe what you do in 100 words?
I love to tell stories. I do it through the modes of acting, singing, writing and dancing. I'm very lucky and thankful that I get to pursue this work as a profession.
2. What’s your first memory of engaging with the arts?
I was six years old and my mother took me to Aida the opera. I remember the sets and costumes being extravagant. Like I had been transported to another world. I remember the singers voices being so powerful and mesmerising but I couldn't understand a word they were saying. The role of Aida was played by Wilhelmenia Fernandez, maybe subconsciously I saw a powerful woman of colour commanding the stage with strength and vulnerability and I thought, I can do that too......Eventually I did curl up on my mum's lap and fell asleep listening to Verdi.
3. How has your practice changed over time?
When I first started I aimed to be a perfectionist (I was doomed). I thought if I worked the hardest that would guarantee the best outcome. I was so wrong. I used to work so hard because I didn't think I was good enough. I had no belief in myself. I was also told that if I wanted anything in life I had to work hard. This way of working wasn't sustainable for me, it sucked the joy and love out of what I was doing. It also started to affect my mental health in negative ways. Now I'm trying a different approach. I practise ways to love myself and continue to build my confidence. I approach "the work" from a place of play. For me that's get up on your feet and read it out, discover the beats, play with the rhythm of the language, explore the movement of this character. Whatever I'm curious about in that moment follow those bread crumbs! For me it's a much more fulfilling way to work. I'm much more peaceful within myself and generally a lot happier.
4. Can you describe your ideal working environment?
I would like the experience I had with Proof every time from now on. Amazing cast & crew, increadible connections, stellar script with nuanced female characters, marvellous direction and fun loving audiences. Make it happen Universe.
Image: supplied by artist.
5. How do you manage work-life balance as an artist?
I haven’t figured that part out yet. Before I started rehearsals for Proof I was working casually at 4BC radio station and was free lancing as a performer. I was barely covering my expenses. I have a few other paid creative projects lined up after Proof ends. Once the season ends I’ll start looking for some other casual work to get my savings up. Long term I would love to set up my own business that I can derive a steady income from that I can reinvest into my creative projects.
6. Who is an artist that inspires you and why?
Oh god there's so many. Off the top of my head... here's my top three - Oprah, Javier Bardem & Tina Turner
7. Do you have a bucket list project / role or collaboration and can you tell us what it is?
Here's the bucket list .... Prince of Egypt the Musical, Mary Poppins would be a hoot! Create the Australian version of Charmed and put all my talented soul sisters in it! Play Marian in a kick arse adaptation of Robin Hood, I love the Robin Hood legends. Finally voice a Disney princess or the matriarchal antagonist, not sure which one would be more fun, as long as they get an epic song!
8. Do you think art is important to society and why?
Yes I do. I recently watched a video about Natalie Portman talking about acting. She said artists encourage active empathy. I agree with her point of view. As actors we are embodying the characters desires and obstacles. We're trying to understand them. As people it is a gift when someone looks deep enough to want to understand you. I see that as empathy, maybe even a form of love. Through storytelling we're encouraging audiences to be more empathetic. To see a story from multiple perspectives. When a story resonates with someone it gets them thinking and discussing the behaviour, the actions, the plot lines etc. It encourages people to reflect on their own actions and hopefully inspire them.
Image: supplied by artist.
9. What is something you have created or a process you have been a part of that you are most proud of?
I'm so incredibly proud of Proof. This creative team is exceptional! Everyone involved is kind, dedicated and so bloody talented. It feels like this team was meant to be because the process has been so organic. From day one in the rehearsal room and the theatre has been filled with love, laughter and plenty of inspiration. I've learnt so much throughout this process and I can't wait to work with everyone again ;)
10. Does your artistic practice help you in other areas of your life, and how so?
Absolutely! My voice training has made me confident within my voice. It's helped explore opportunities as a broadcast journalist. As an actor you shift your focus on to the other character or the imaginary world around you. That curiosity has flowed into my every day life. I enjoy talking to new people, getting to know them. I enjoy connection. I'm definitely and extrovert. I guess this practice has encouraged me to be my most genuine self and cultivate curiosity for the world around me.
Proof by David Auburn plays at Ad Astra from 15 June - 8 July. Tickets here.
If you are or know of an artist that might like to feature in our Spotlight: 10 Questions series please send us an email to hello@thatproductioncompany.com.au.
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