Interview: Carlotta (Carlotta's Christmas Special)

Following sell out shows in 2017, Carlotta is back at HOTA and ready to celebrate Christmas as only she can!

Featuring stories and songs from this living legend’s 50 years on and off the stage, Carlotta will be accompanied on piano by Helpmann Award winner Michael Griffiths.

Rosie spoke with performer Carlotta about this 'best of' show and what we can expect from the Australian icon. Read the full interview below:

Carlotta

Following sell out shows in 2017, you’re returning to HOTA for a one night only performance of Christmas Special. What brought you back to the HOTA stage, and what is it about the festive season that made you want to commemorate it with a special performance?

I live on the Gold Coast and friends are always complaining they don't get to see me perform. Most of them are in my age group and love a matinee! It’s been a long time since I've done a Christmas show and I’m singing some of my favourite Carols and highlights from my other shows with the wonderful Michael Griffiths leading a 3 piece band.

From Australian icon to political activist, you’ve lived a diverse and extraordinary life. How do you encapsulate 50 years of stories both on and off the stage in a single show? What are your favourite stories to bring to the stage?

I don't think I'm politically active, it’s more that I'm politically incorrect! I say it as it is and like Aussies being Aussies. And I’ve got lots of stories because I’ve had a funny life, I don't go through life miserable. My favourite stories are the funny things that have happened to me over the years. If you want to hear them you’ll have to come along to the show.

You’ve got a huge Australian following, and multiple sold out shows to match. Why do you think your works keep audiences coming back time and time again?

Well hopefully I keep giving them a good laugh.

What can audiences expect from Christmas Special, and why should they buy tickets to this festive show?

Because I'm not dead yet darlings so come and see your old girl sing and dance. I’m planning this show as a ‘best of’ with lots of Christmas cheer.

You’ve had an iconic impact on Australian culture in your 50 years as a performer. What impact do you hope to achieve with your performances? Have you found your shows change as audience sensibilities shift?

I’ve been in this business for 54 years now and I'm very fortunate to have an audience from all different age groups. With all the problems going on in the world today I hope audiences can forget their worries for a moment. I don't think my shows have changed that much, I'm still the same Carlotta as I was back in the Cross.

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS:

Favourite production you have ever seen?

Jerry’s Girls

You’re getting on a plane tomorrow and you can go anywhere in the world, where do you go?

New York

Dream show to perform in?

La Cage Aux Folles

Plays or musicals?

Musicals

A hobby you have beyond the theatre?

Painting

What’s next for you after this show?

The cemetery

Carlotta's Christmas Special is on for one night only on September 15 at HOTA. You can get your tickets here.