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She’s one of New Zealand’s most successful acting exports, with film credits such as Separation City, and popular television shows, including Underbelly and The Cult, under her belt.

 

A multiple award-winner, she’s taking centre stage in Silo’s first production of 2012 - TOP GIRLS. It’s a play about women in the workforce and the sacrifices that go hand in hand with a successful career. A mum of two boys with a broad range of interests, she’s no stranger to juggling tasks. And with so much success, we can’t think of anyone better to show us how far women have come in the last 30 years.

 

Here’s the talented Danielle Cormack sharing with M2woman her thoughts on the new play TOP GIRLS, women in the workforce, and her secrets to a successful career. Vodka Martini’s and all.

 

 

I didn't know at all - I just did it for fun and then landed roles and started getting paid for it.  I don't recall a time that I made a definitive decision that I was "going to act", but feel bloody thankful that I keep getting employed.

 

Q: What’s the most challenging thing about acting?  


 

This week it's learning my lines.  I seem to be distracted by everything.

 

 

I wouldn't say constantly. I certainly welcome inspiring projects and characters that interest me or push me to explore new aspects of what I do. If there is no work around I find it’s best not to sit at home obsessing, which is why I have hobbies like mowing the lawns and sewing.

 

 

Spend time with my kids.  Do the grocery shopping.  Hang out the washing.  Cook.  Have long winded conversations with friends about how we can change the world.  Try to finish the short film that I co-wrote and directed.  Vow to finish reading the pile of books beside my bed.  Bring in washing.

 

 

One that has as many dimensions as possible! But it’s not just about the role but where the role sits within the story.  Yes, there are some great roles out there but they are even better if they are supported by good scripts, directing, production value and basically any other department that supports the realisation of a character. So I tend to look at the package deal.

It’s a play about what it means to be a woman in a modern world. The character I play is Marlene – who we follow throughout the play. When you first meet her she’s just scored a high-flying job as Managing Director at a recruitment agency. We first see her celebrating her success but as the play goes on you learn of the sacrifices that she’s had to make to get there. It asks that question – can woman climb the corporate ladder and still have the bliss of domestic life?...even though this play was written 30 years ago, I think that question is still totally relevant today.

 

 

In no particular order.... to be back on the stage as I haven't for a year or so, to work back here in New Zealand, to have the chance to work with all the ladies in this stellar cast, and…I have never been directed by Shane Bosher  (I hear he’s pretty flash).  Not to mention that TOP GIRLS is hailed as one of the top plays to come out of the UK in the 20th century.

 

Of course. I’m a working mum and have chosen to sacrifice time with my children because I have to keep chickens on the table and getting judged for that. The statistics for Women still not being considered for higher positions within the workplace are still alarmingly high.  I’m aware that there has been a huge shift in how women place themselves and are accepted in the workforce but there is still a way to go before there is true equality. 

 

 

Some days it is and others it’s seamless.  There are always interesting curve balls being thrown especially when I think have everything organised, which is a nice reminder to take it all in the stride.  There are plenty of people in the world managing a career and family.  

 

 

Make no excuses for what you do or how you do it. Keep your options open, don't be too precious and maintain an optimistic outlook and if all that fails then head to the nearest bar, order a Vodka Martini and reassess the situation.

TOP GIRLS
23.feb — 17.mar.12
Silo Theatre

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By Stephanie Clews

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