Tara Morice has been a beloved presence on Australian stage and screen for more than three decades. Best known for her breakout role as Fran in Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom – a performance that earned her BAFTA and AFI nominations – Tara has built a career across film, television and theatre that is as varied as it is enduring.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Tara reflects on the global phenomenon of Strictly Ballroom, the early days of working with Baz Luhrmann, and the challenges of sustaining a long career in the arts. She talks candidly about typecasting, ageing in an industry obsessed with youth, and the balance between artistic integrity and simply paying the bills. She also explores the touching story behind her documentary My Biggest Fan, and why she’s relishing the chance to bring humour, honesty and celebration to her upcoming role in Menopause: The Musical.

Menopause: The Musical plays at the State Theatre, Sydney, for two weeks only from September 19.