So many things. I began KISS PUNCH MUSIC two years ago. A boutique, management company working collaboratively and creatively with artists and their music, building brand and profile in productive and innovative ways. Most importantly, connecting artist’s music to their audience’s ears. I currently have two Adelaide acts on my roster. Mìo, a three-piece electro dream pop act and producer Bad Cop.
I feel very lucky to have been supported on my musical journey as I came to it late in my career. In 2008 I began managing The Killgirls who played some big festivals, including The Great Escape in the UK. Before then (and now) I make theatre, having worked in the Adelaide arts scene for the past 20 years. I’m currently directing two shows in 2017, one in the Fringe and the other with State Theatre’s Umbrella programme. I’m also working on the Adelaide Fringe opening night Parade team, I teach two days a week and I’m the proud mum of a fifteen-year old. It’s a busy life.
Why do you do it?
Working in the arts is all I’ve ever done. It’s part of who I am. I have that creative spirit that needs to connect with others and make new things. The management side of my work can often become quite admin-driven at times and so I find as an artist, it’s important that I continue to feed myself creatively. Sharing in the artistry with musicians and artists is the most rewarding thing I do. Watching them on stage, collaborating in the process, strategically building pathways and outcomes is exciting. For me there is nothing better than sharing in that live exchange at a show, between audience and performer, when you can feel the air shimmer. It’s magical. Transcending.
What do you love about the city you live in?
I feel totally blessed to live in such a culturally expanding city. Adelaide is changing. It needed to. It’s embracing the cultural rush outside of the festival madness and opening unique spaces for art to find itself in. The food is delicious, the bars are unique and the musical talent here is growing all the time. Of course, sometimes I feel like I don't want to be living in the same place all my life. But hey, that's what holiday escapes to Berlin are for.
Where did you go for your last holiday?
Melbourne. A quick getaway to watch an awesome band.
What's your favourite item of clothing? Why?
Knickers and a t-shirt. I would live in that if the world would let me.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid?
As a kid I loved watching Saturday morning cartoons. Waking up with no responsibilities, endless cartoons in a pillow fort. What’s not to love.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go?
Can I go to the future? I’d love to see what’s in front of us. Technology, fashion, how this Trump tragedy plays out.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us?
Espresso martinis. That's a start. Then how about we order pizza. (Lulu’s Pizza is the best!)
What's the best lesson you've ever learned?
When I first started managing The Killgirls, I used to think, ok what’s next… what should I be doing? What else is there to do? Now I know there is ALWAYS something I should/ could be doing. It’s an on-going juggernaut. There is so much to learn and set up and develop and schedule for and book and write and respond to and network and plan and learn even more and research and homework and talk about and… I don't do nearly enough. On a personal note: being vulnerable doesn’t make you a weak person. Rather, it lets you and others discover the beautiful bits we often miss.
Are you happy with your work/ life balance?
I definitely need to learn to say no more often. Taking on too much not only affects quality output but also scrambles me emotionally on the inside. Having great friends and my gorgeous, little family is a huge rescue. Their belief in me provides a self-assurance I often need.
How do you define success?
Pride in my work. Smiles on people’s faces.
What's your spirit animal?
Amy Schumer.
