Tēnā koe.
I have been an arts practitioner for over 35 years, in theatre and film, events and festivals, visual arts as well as governance. I founded the Ugly Shakespeare Company in 1996 which still runs today. My work with He Waka Eke Noa includes establishing the arts centre, Kete Aronui, and as a apart of that, The Factory Theatre. While theatre gave me my start, I am also an award winning screenwriter and filmmaker, appearing in the Guinness Book of World Records.
I am passionate about supporting those diverse arts communities which often struggle to see themselves reflected on and screen. Part of my work involves facilitating Te Tiriti workshops for organisations in the arts and beyond. Equity is important and providing opportunity essential.
Always keen to collaborate with fledgling and established practitioners, I want to use my experience to enhance the experience of others. Ngā mihi!
Organisation/Company
Name: He Waka Eke Noa Charitable Trust
My Role: Executive Director | Artistic Director | Producer
He Waka Eke Noa was established in 2002 to facilitate arts access. Our current strategic plan is as follows:
MISSION STATEMENT:
To facilitate arts access and to inspire arts practitioners and audiences, irrespective of social, economic or geographic isolation.
VISION STATEMENTS:
To prioritise the important place of Tangata Whenua of First Peoples of Aotearoa by honouring Te Titiri o Waitangi.
To support diversity and inclusiveness in the arts through agency, advocacy and opportunity.
To empower the well-being of the arts community through sustained support and guidance.
To lead the change, the growth and the development of the arts in Aotearoa by providing mentorship, opportunities and facilities.
The Trust runs The Ugly Shakespeare Company, Kete Aronui and The Factory Theatre, as well as advocating in the arts, mentoring and working in arts governance.
https://www.waka.org.nz
https://www.ugly.org.nz
Organisation/Company
Name: Kete Aronui and The Factory Theatre
My Role: Artistic Director / Producer
Kete Aronui was established in 2019 to facilitate access to affordable, fit for purpose and accessible rehearsal space. We provide 5 rehearsal rooms in Onehunga of different sizes, with wood floors and mirrors. Starting at just $7.00 per hour, we recognise that space in Tāmaki is limited, often unaffordable and lacks access. We have a sliding scale for unfunded, funded and corporate hires. It has 24/7 access, great security and 39 carparks. We are just a short walk fro the train/bus centre and off SH20 both from south and west.
https://www.ketearonui.org.nz
The Factory Theatre was set up on the same site as Kete Aronui in 2021. A black box theatre with a 105 seat capacity, this fully flexible space includes a basic lighting rig, sound system and a truss rated for up to three circus performers. Our curated foyer and fully licenced bar enhances any audience experience.
https://www.factorytheatre.org.nz/
The Performing Arts Network of New Zealand (PANNZ) Arts Market is New Zealand's premiere event for artists, producers, presenters and industry leaders from across the performing arts sector.