Joaquina Kalukango plays the role of the legendary Gloria Gaynor in the biopic I Will Survive: The Gloria Gaynor Story premiering February 8th on Lifetime TV. She knocked it out of the park with her Tony winning performance in the Broadway musical Paradise Square . This supremely talented and engaging actress finds no trouble bringing her whole heart to the role of Gaynor. During our time hanging with Joaquina on our NYC shoot we found she has the kindest heart, brightest smile and is super down to create. Get to know this rising star as we chat about her first leading role onscreen playing Ms. Gaynor, stepping into the costumes of the disco era, being a mom, evolving as a performer, immense love for Broadway/symphony halls and we love the touch of spice in her bare essentials……..scroll on down and see!

The Bare Magazine: Please share a little about the audition process and ultimately getting the role of playing the legendary Gloria Gaynor? Did you love the script and director?

Joaquina Kalukango: When I received the offer to portray Gloria Gaynor, I was immediately intrigued. After reading the first draft of the script, I knew without a doubt I had to say yes! Her journey is both complex and deeply inspirational. It’s also incredibly rare to portray a living legend - especially one who is also an executive producer on the project. Knowing that this story has her full support made it even more special.

Bare: The disco era — what a fun moment for style! Tell us a little about the set/costumes and hair/ makeup.

JK: Our incredible costume designer, Brian Chan, brought Gloria Gaynor’s fashion legacy to life. We started with 121 looks and carefully narrowed it down to 60, covering her iconic style from the 1970s to the 2000s. Some of Ms. Gaynor’s most memorable outfits were originally made by her, and Brian did an outstanding job recreating them, especially the breathtaking red sequined gown with the matching feathered cape. Her hair reflected the trends of the era from Afros to Jeri curls to highlighted beautiful tresses.

Bare: In what ways did the experience of playing this role help you evolve personally and professionally?

JK: Personally, this experience deepened my faith in ways I never expected. Professionally, it pushed me to use every skill I have, challenging me in the best way possible. And as my first executive producing credit, it gave me the opportunity to be more hands-on in the storytelling and shaping of her journey.

Bare: When you met Gloria Gaynor, what struck you most about her spirit?

JK: What stood out to me most about Gloria Gaynor was her warmth and authenticity. She’s a woman who truly knows herself - confident, grounded, and full of grace. And on top of that, she has an incredible sense of humor!

Bare: Describe your top work passions and goals — what/where are your favorite places to perform? The theatre, on camera, music, dancing?!

JK: My favorite places to perform are Broadway stages and symphony halls. There’s nothing like the energy of a live audience! But I equally love the collaborative spirit of being on set, where so many talented people come together to create something truly special.

Bare: What are your favorite non-work passions, pastimes and ways to decompress?

JK: My favorite way to unwind is by taking a vacation. Recently, I went to Universal Studios, and exploring Harry Potter World was pure magic - it brought my childhood dreams to life!

Bare: How has becoming a mom changed the way you choose work and also enriched you as an artist?

JK: Being a mom has made me much more intentional about the roles I take on and where I film. My son is still young, so I always consider how long I’ll be away or whether I can bring him with me. When I had my son, everything deepened - my capacity to love unconditionally, my strength to push through knowing someone was depending on me, and my confidence to set firm boundaries when needed. Children watch every move you make, and the way you navigate the world shapes how they show up in it. This awareness influences every decision I make.

Bare: Please list your top 5/6 Bare Essentials (they can be anything or anyone).

JK: My bare essentials include:

• my family

• a frozen Kit Kat

• my espresso machine

• plenty of water

• Beyoncé’s Renaissance album

• and a bottle of Tabasco.

Photos/Editor in Chief: Tina Turnbow

Makeup: Tara Lauren

Hair: Tish Celestine

Shot at Hard Rock hotel NYC