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In her new role as Artistic Director at State Theatre Company South Australia, Petra Kalive brings a passion for bold storytelling, new Australian voices and theatre that sparks conversation… And she’s doing it all in Frock Me Out!
We’re thrilled to be Petra’s exclusive wardrobe partner for the 2026 season, a collaboration that felt like a natural fit from the moment she walked into our store. We asked Petra about theatre, style, Adelaide life and the FMO pieces she’s been living in. Safe to say, we think she has excellent taste in theatre and clothes!
MEET PETRA
You’ve worn many creative hats before stepping into the role of Artistic Director of State Theatre Company SA, what brought you to SA and what can we expect from a Petra-led season?
I’m thrilled to be here! State Theatre Company’s stellar reputation for bold, thoughtprovoking, and entertaining productions across Australia is what drew me to South Australia. The chance to collaborate with Adelaide’s incredible talent - and to tap into the unique opportunities a company like State Theatre offers - was simply too good to pass up.
Throughout my career I’ve gravitated toward new Australian writing and stories from the margins, no matter the theatrical form. That passion shapes the upcoming season. You can look forward to a slate of works that open new perspectives, spark conversation, and hopefully, entertain while fostering empathy in equal measure.
If you had to sum up your personal style or preference in three words, what would they be?
Colourful.
Flattering silhouette.
Unique.
We’re pumped you’ll be wearing FMO this season. How did you hear about us and what made you choose us as your wardrobe partner this year?
Being an Artistic Director means you spend a lot of time at Opening Nights and other events and I was constantly stressed about what I was wearing. So, I was looking for a local designer to wear – someone who matched my vibe I guess. I wanted to feel confident in playful designs that looked fabulous and that I could wear across multiple seasons – something unique that doesn’t go out of style. From that perspective when I stumbled across Frock Me Out in my online search, it was a no brainer! Gorgeous prints, fabulous cuts and styles that could work from the rehearsal room to opening night. And then I went and tried them on,
and for the first time in a long time, the clothes just fit and felt good and I seriously have not taken them off since leaving the store.
If you had to choose a favourite FMO item/print, what would it be?
My Denim Freestyler jumpsuit – I’d wear it every day if I could.
I love my Black Chevron V-neck short sleeved cashmere knit – I wear these with my FMO jeans all the time.
And how can you go past the Magnolia Tie Neck Blouse? So, I guess, I can’t choose one favourite.
L-R: Vintage Wash Denim Freestyler Jumpsuit, Black Chevron V-neck Cotton Cashmere Jumper (Sold Out), Dark Indigo High Waist Denim Jeans, Magnolia Tie Neck Blouse (Sold Out)
Can you tell us what you love most about our partnership?
I love three things most about our partnership:
Local pride – Every time I’m out and about, I get compliments on what I’m wearing, and I can proudly say it’s from a talented Adelaide designer. The fit, the cut, and the fabrics are all outstanding - beautiful, natural, recycled, and ethically made.
Great people – Walking into the store feels like visiting friends. The team is always welcoming, knowledgeable, and eager to help, which makes each visit a genuine pleasure.
Empowering creativity – I get to champion a group of amazing, creative women who are dedicated to helping other women look and feel fantastic through thoughtful, stylish design.
FAST 5
1. We know you’ve just moved here from Melbourne - but have you discovered any favourite spots that we might need to know about?
I’m a bit obsessed with Peter Rabbit Café in the City.
And I just had the most amazing meal at Parwarna restaurant.
2. What’s been your favourite Adelaide Festival/Fringe/event moment so far?
Oh, for me it’s the chats with colleagues and strangers between shows – what did you think of that? What was that bit about? Wasn’t that moment fabulous?!
3. Where might we find you on a Sunday morning when you’re not at the theatre?
Most likely at the market shopping for the week's vegetables or at the swimming pool with my small humans.
4. A book/show/podcast that’s inspiring you right now?
I listen to a lot of podcasts - The Rest Is Politics (both US and UK), If You're Listening, Not Stupid, Arts and Ideas, The Minefield, Politics Now, 99% Invisible, Radiolab, Freakonomics (I’m sure there are more I just can’t think of them now). I’m reading a romantacy novel at the moment as a break from all the plays I read during the week – pure escapism.
5. Do you have any backstage rituals or habits you can share with us?
Breathing. I do a lot of breathing. We all breathe I know. But slow deep breaths, horse blows, special breathing voice exercises. If I’ve got time, I also have a stretching routine that helps me feel ready to go.
Petra wears our Petrol Velvet Freestyler Jumpsuit (coming soon)
SEASON 2026
The 2026 season kicks off this week with Trophy Boys on Tuesday 17 March. Team FMO will be there and we can’t wait to see Petra’s first season unfold - we've had a sneak peek of the program and there are SO many brilliant shows!
Take a look here: STCSA 2026 Season Program.