Carly Pokoradi is an artist led by her tremendous empathy, wit, and intelligence. Her passion for collaboration draws her to devise projects and new work that challenge her to move outside her comfort zone. Her gift for physical comedy has led her to shine in shows for Monster Theatre, most recently, Juliet: A Revenge Comedy. Her electric performance playing over seventeen(!) characters won the 2022 Jessie Richardson Theatre Award for Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Dramatic or Comedic Role.
Her recontextiled project aims to rework upcycled clothing by adorning them with “subversive new logos that could very well come unstitched at any moment.” It is a project that keeps her mind on the now. The themes of waste, decolonial allyship and wanting to subvert capitalistic doom are a result of her trying her best to do the hard work. Recontextiled was featured in the 2021 Hammock Residency (James Black Gallery).
A genuine passion for connection informs Carly’s daily life. She opens her heart to her loved ones and holds space for so many others in her life. Carly has often said much of who she is seems to stem from her love of “play,” which is reflected in her people-positive approach to life. A walk outside in her neighbourhood wouldn’t be complete without stopping by her favourite little free libraries to feel connected to where she lives.
At home, Carly is joyously loud and ready for spontaneous fun. She enjoys the ritual of mealtime, the cozy naps on the couch and the intimacy of family moments. Her loved ones have described her as a “human cartoon,” a “force of nature,” and at times even a “monster by mistake.” She is beloved for her gigantic heart.
-Written by Tom Costie, Carly’s partner and collaborator
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Which ‘hood do you live in?
I live with my partner in a bright orange and yellow apartment in vibrant Mount Pleasant (at least until I get priced out). I’m grateful to have called unceded Coast Salish territory home for the past decade after moving here to attend Studio 58 Acting Conservatory and falling in love with this city’s mountains, perpetual greenery, and humans.
What do you do?
I am an actor, collaborative creator, clown, director, writer, improvisor, textile artist, and ASL-English interpreter. I am also an auntie, a Jessie Richardson Award winner, an Artistic Associate with Monster Theatre, a graduate of Studio 58, and a wannabe crone. I am a terrible cook but I love to eat, I host a mean clothing swap, and I’m one half of the comedy duo The Dangerous Janes.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m starring in Snow White at Carousel Theatre for Young People alongside Katrina Teitz & MJ Coomber, directed by Jennica Grienke. I’m so proud of the show our kind and silly team has built together; trust me when I say that it will make young and old giggle and guffaw. We run until December 31st at the Waterfront Theatre. We’re offering an ASL-interpreted show on December 9th, and an audio-described performance with VocalEye on December 16th!
Where can we find your work?
Catch me dipping into stages, galleries, and chilly waters across this gorgeous town. Next up, I’ll be part Slice of Life Gallery’s Collective Chaos Exhibition on February 3rd. Then, come out to The Cultch between February 8th – 18th to watch the hilarious Juliet: A Revenge Comedy. You can follow my various projects on Instagram at @carlypo, @recontextiled, and @thedangerousjanes or check out my website.
