Look, Koo's calling

COLETTE KOO HAS lived a million lives. Once a stage actress who starred in several notable roles including Vagina Monologues (in which she simulated the sounds of orgasm), Koo progressed to a career that spanned radio, art shows and body piercing. (And, unknown to many, she was an intern at the South China Morning Post about 20 years ago.) 'People look at me and often do not realise my age,' she says. 'I am 45.' Perhaps Koo's next project should be writing a book about staying young.

But she did not mind sharing her secret when asked. 'Believing you are young is one way, and I take a multi-vitamin tablet once a day. Also, I use slightly more expensive cream these days.'

Koo has come a long way from the days when she was acting at the Fringe Club. She is on the A-list of the city's high-society parties, and cannot live without her silver Peugeot 206 convertible.

With her background in acting and as the co-owner of star-dusted nightclub Drop, Koo counts a great many friends among the town's leading socialites and celebrities. Best friend in the social circle? 'I am on the fringe of everything. I don't have a set group of friends. It can be fun this way, and does not [make me] feel as obligated.' This makes people more comfortable about talking to her, Koo says.

'No one has to go: Oh wait, she's close to so and so and I should not tell her this. I'm also very bad at gossiping. I don't remember things very well.'

Perhaps that is exactly what makes her an ideal best friend.