Actor, broadcaster, model, and musician are just a few of words to describe Perth entertainer Kara Perrin. The beautiful and talented Kara stared in the new short film The Memory by Western Australian film maker Mark Regan. Kara Perrin is someone we hope to see more of in the future.
I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Kara for The Australian Short Film Network Journal.
Welcome to The Australian Film Network Journal Kara Perrin.
Kara – Thank you so much for having me.
When did you decide that you wanted to pursue a career in film?
Kara – I’ve always been fascinated by the entertainment industry. I started dancing when I was 3 years old and then took up other forms of art like drawing, music and singing. My dance experience opened doors to the world of theatre and performance and I would regularly go to shows with my mum. I was in my first pantomime at 12 and it really flowed on from there. I will admit once I went to university and got into the workforce my passion for the arts was put on hold but after an unfortunate health setback I was lucky to be able to take up acting again. It was the best thing that ever happened to me really. I started out doing voice over work at the radio station where I worked and got my first paid job narrating a Fringe Show. I went back to uni in 2018 and studied at WAAPA completing my Post Grad in Broadcasting. From that I learned many skills that I have been able to apply to my career as an actor.
You are also a singer and play some instruments, could you tell us about that?
Kara – I went to a catholic school so we has singing lessons for mass and I was even part of the church choir. My first solo performance was at our year 7 confirmation. Then in high school I took singing lessons and received some amazing classical training from the wonderful Heidi Lake. She exposed me to a wide range of music and I learned to sing in different languages. I also played the piano from the age of 9 and continued that for 5 years as well as the saxophone and drums. My parents had a little band setup at our house. I think my dad wanted us kids to be the next Hanson Group haha.
What is your favourite Australian film?
Kara – I absolutely loved “13 Gantry Row” with Rebecca Gibney. One of my all-time favourites. I also really loved Priscilla and Muriel’s Wedding. But 13 Gantry Row would be my top pick. I have a soft spot for the psychological thriller kind of movies.
If you could work with any film maker or actor who would it be and why?
Kara – I would love to work with Anthony Hopkins. I mean why wouldn’t you? He’s absolutely amazing. Apart from the fact that I love the Hannibal franchise, he has a quality about him that just shines on the big screen.
You are in Mark Regan’s short film The Memory, what can you tell us about that and your experience?
Kara – So The Memory is a psychological thriller. I play Annabella a young woman who breaks into a man’s apartment and ties him up. She then forces him to remember a crime he committed, which in turn makes Eric question what the true reality is. I was very fortunate that Mark chose me for the female lead in his short film. In the past I had worked on some student films, commercials and been an extra in ABC’s Itch; but this was my first lead role where I could really explore the character and push some creative limits. Mark was really wonderful to work with and I gained valuable experience being on the film set.
How has CoVID 19 affected your work?
Kara – In the beginning work was slow and being someone who has a chronic illness and compromised immune system I had to be very careful when Covid came about. It has given me valuable time to take a step back and really focus on where I want to take my acting. I’ve been immersing myself in a variety of films and analyzing the methods different actors use. I’ve also been doing some of my own writing which has surprisingly brought out a real creative side that I never knew existed.
Where would you like to be in 5 years?
Kara – To be honest acting is a journey and everyone goes at their own pace. I would love to get involved in some more projects and work on my craft as well as do some more writing and bring stories to life.
What are you currently working on?
Kara – I can’t tell you too much about my current projects at this time but I can tell you that I am collaborating with some wonderful, talented people so watch this space.
Any advice for women wanting to pursue a career in entertainment?
Kara – I think the thing that held me back most of my adult life was that I was too scared to just give it a go. You won’t know what you are capable of until you try. Also the industry can be very competitive. There are always going to be others you believe to be more suitable for a role but you honestly don’t know what the director is looking for at the time. Just be the best version of yourself. Don’t try to be like anyone else.
Where can our readers find you?
Kara – On my Instagram Kara.Perrin or my Starnow profile which has updates on my latest creative pursuits.
Thank you for talking to us Kara.
Kara – It’s an absolute pleasure.
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