Anna Próchniak
stars in
Peacock Series
The Tattooist
of Auschwitz
Photography Beni Masiala
Stylist Yasmine Sabri
Interview Laasya Gadiyaram
In Tattooist of Auschwitz, Anna Próchniak embodies the brave story of Gita Furmanova, as she explores the complex narrative of hope and struggle. As an up-and-coming actress, we talk about her dance background, character development, and favorite beauty products.
Pants: Uma Wang, Ves:t Marc Le Bihan, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Pinah, Bangle: Linnie Mclarty
Pants: Uma Wang, Ves:t Marc Le Bihan, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Pinah, Bangle: Linnie Mclarty
Congratulations on the Tattooist of Auschwitz! How has the process been so far?
Thank you! It was an extremely intense project but at the same time the most formative I’ve ever done. I read Heather Morris’s book when it came out and immediately understood the phenomenon. As an actor I feel really privileged because these types of projects don’t come by very often. The scripts were beautifully written so we had the opportunity to tell a meaningful and inspiring real life story while working with an amazing cast and an excellent female director Tali Shalom Ezer. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? But it was also really challenging in terms of the subject matter and the responsibility we felt telling this story to the world.
How did you approach developing your character?
It is very terrifying to play a character based on a real person – it’s really scary. I wanted to tell Gita’s story respectfully, with all my sensitivity, tenderness and love for her. I did a lot of research, worked with cultural and historical consultants, and talked to Heather Morris about Lali’s memories of his wife. But the real breakthrough was watching Gita’s testimony which she gave in 1997, at the age of 72 in her apartment in Melbourne. It helped me connect to the character and understand her more as a person and I really felt her presence and protection while I was filming.
I recently met Gita’s son, Gary, and we spent the most amazing and emotional time together during the show’s press week in London. It was truly moving. On one hand it seemed unreal but on the other it seemed like the perfect closure. I can’t put into words what his blessing and acceptance means to me.
Top & Tank Top: MM6 Maison Margiela at Archive J.M., Skirt: Ribot, Embellished Top: Toga, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Jewelry: Dinosaur Designs
Pants: Uma Wang, Ves:t Marc Le Bihan, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Pinah, Bangle: Linnie Mclarty
What narratives do you find yourself gravitating towards?
Cinema and literature have inspired me since my childhood. I loved how it stimulated my imagination and I guess I was looking for role models and different perspectives to understand the world. Stories with strong female characters have always resonated with me the most and I love coming-of-age narratives because they’re not about a specific age, but rather the transition itself. I find it fascinating how these types of stories explore complex themes such as self-discovery and identity formation. I always felt different from other people, I was an outsider with a strong imagination and I spent a lot of time in my head. These stories would guide me and show me that being different doesn’t mean inferior to others, but rather it means unique.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz grapples with heavy themes and concepts. How did you approach this performance?
Ever since I first read the script I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy story to tell but it was an important one. It was challenging for all of the cast and crew and it would have been naive to think it wouldn’t have a big impact on us but we tried not to be self-indulgent about it. It was a collective work in a controlled environment. The production provided on-set mental health support for all cast and crew who would need it. I felt great support from our director Tali and my co-stars. I haven’t felt so safe working on a set in a long time. But it was an extremely immersive and physical acting experience – truly life-changing.
Blouse, Jackets & Skirt: Miu Miu s25, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Dinosaur Designs, Rings: Linnie Mclarty
Blouse, Jackets & Skirt: Miu Miu s25, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Dinosaur Designs, Rings: Linnie Mclarty
What do you want viewers to know about The Tattooist of Auschwitz before they see it?
This is truly an amazing and inspiring story of two brave people who find love and hope in a world filled with hatred, horror, and terror. They chose love and humanity in the darkest of places. Their story gives a glimmer of hope and hope is something we all need in the current world.
Your career began in ballet before transitioning to acting. How has your dance background informed your acting?
Dancing has been just the most natural way to express myself ever since I remember. My mom says I started dancing before I was walking. I loved the structure and the rules of classical dance but when I discovered contemporary dance, I learned that it allowed me to break the rules, improvise, explore, and try to access something in myself that I haven’t been aware of. I also think this is such an amazing base for an actor because it’s not just about the movement, but rather the presence. I believe it is easier to access emotions through one’s body than through the analytical mind so I always start with body awareness. My approach to acting and taking on roles has always been very organic and intuitive and perhaps my dance background could be the reason why.
Blouse, Jackets & Skirt: Miu Miu s25, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Dinosaur Designs, Rings: Linnie Mclarty
Blouse, Jackets & Skirt: Miu Miu s25, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Dinosaur Designs, Rings: Linnie Mclarty
How has your background in acting and dance influenced your personal style?
As a dancer, I always dressed comfortably because I spent every free moment stretching and exercising. Because I used to wear various fancy costumes onstage, I liked simplicity in everyday life. Similarly, with acting, I use the costumes to get closer to the characters I play, and on a daily basis I just want to feel grounded and comfortable.
On a completely separate note, in your personal life, what does your daily skincare routine look like?
It’s very simple but I’m really consistent with it. I drink a lot of water (at least 4 liters a day), I moisturize regularly, I supplement collagen and regardless of whether the sun is shining or it’s raining cats and dogs, I never forget about SPF 50 sunscreen, I also try to get as much sleep as possible. It really makes a huge difference!
Top & Tank Top: MM6 Maison Margiela at Archive J.M., Skirt: Ribot, Embellished Top: Toga, Heels: Manolo Blahnik, Jewelry: Dinosaur Designs
What beauty products have transformed your makeup routine?
I honestly, I barely wear any makeup on a daily basis. I like my natural beauty with my flaws and imperfections. But it wasn’t always like this – when I was a teenager I was really ashamed of looking younger than my age. I wanted to grow up faster and look more mature so I used to wear tons of makeup. It’s quite funny when I look at my photos from that period. But it all ended when I went to drama school and realized that my young appearance was very much to my advantage. So I think it wasn’t any particular product that changed my approach, but a change in mindset. Now I know that being beautiful means being real and embracing all the aspects that make me unique.
What’s one beauty product you couldn’t live without?
A lip balm!
Pants: Uma Wang, Ves:t Marc Le Bihan, Shoes: Manolo Blahnik, Earrings: Pinah, Bangle: Linnie Mclarty
Photographer
Casting & Cover Art
Interview
Stylist
Makeup
Elaine Lynsky @ Premier Hair and Makeup
Hair
Web Layout
Thank you