Actress Carina Lau on excelling as an actor: 'You must be prepared for hardships and sleep deprivation'
SINGAPORE – Carina Lau, one of Asian’s prominent showbiz actresses, was a celebrity judge for Star Search 2019 Grand Finals on Sunday (3 November). Together with actor/director Stephen Fung and personality Simon Yam, she lend her star power to Mediacorp’s search for the next fresh talent. Yahoo Lifestyle Singapore sat down with her before judge duties to get her insight on what makes an actor/actress truly great.
As one of the judges for Star Search 2019, can you tell us what attracts you for an actor or actress?
It’s the innate charisma. When he or she stands in front of you, they have that ability to draw you in.
What advice do you have for younger, budding actresses?
Do not think that being an actor is an easy thing. This is not an easy job. Not only do you need to have a good appearance, you need to have a sense of responsibility, be informed about history, culture, music and arts. You must know everything so that you can excel as an actor. The more knowledgeable you are, the more you can apply to your acting, which will help you.
Of course, you must be prepared to take on hardships, sacrifice sleep and to have irregular schedules.
What projects would you be embarking on in 2020?
Currently there is nothing confirmed for now. I am still looking at scripts.
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Do we have a chance to hear you sing again?
Nothing is impossible. But I don’t sing well and there are many talented superstars in my era. They sing too well and I pale in comparison to them.
What kind of role would you like to play but haven’t?
The 50-year-old Madam Huang next door who is experiencing menopause and starting to get dementia. Someone who is experiencing uncertainty in family, society, environment or career. I would like to play something like that.
Is it okay if you have to look ugly?
Of course, it is definitely fine.
You said that you have been to Singapore on a few personal trips. What do you like about Singapore?
Its cleanliness and neatness. There is a lot of greenery as well.
The food?
Hainanese chicken rice. The moment we touched down, Mr (Tony) Leung (her husband) said that we should go and eat it. He likes Hainanese chicken rice and laksa.
Lastly, how do you keep your skin in tip-top condition?
Exercise is very good for my skin metabolism. I let myself perspire and dispel toxins. Aging is inevitable but you need to take care of your spirit. The mountains and seas in Hong Kong are a good way to get in touch with nature. Singapore may not have those but there are also nature parks.
I will do all sort of exercising, such as table tennis, etc. Find a sport or anything that you like for yourself to sweat it out.
