Henderson’s very own Red Leap is an exciting theatre company dedicated to sharing engaging stories and the magic of theatre.
Based at the Corban Arts Estate Centre, Red Leap offers an award-winning programme of productions.
According to General Manager Grant Mouldey, a vital part of Red Leap’s mission is to inspire the next generation.
Red Leap Theatre
has run a popular school programme for several years. ‘Since 2020, we have delivered impactful online and in-person workshops and resources to over 3,000 students,’ Grant declares.
Last year, Red Leap ran a series of free workshops for high school students in several West Auckland schools, including Rutherford, Waitākere, and St Dominic’s. Supported by the fantastic Red Leap team, students explored all aspects of the creative process, from devising to acting and production.
Grant says Glen Eden Intermediate joined the programme this year, which is the first time it’s been delivered to this younger age group.
‘As part of the programme, we provided low-cost tickets for students to attend live theatre, in many cases for the first time,’ advises Grant.
The students enjoyed a performance of the spectacular Dakota of the White Flats. Described by one critic as ‘fizzing, popping, sparkling theatre’, the show is a coming-of-age story about a 13-year-old girl growing up in a changing world. And its content resonated perfectly with young audiences who could identify with the sassy Dakota.
A $10,000 grant from the 2023 Your West Support Fund
helped cover the operational costs of the exciting school project.
In addition, some of the funding went towards a collaboration with the nearby Te Pou Theatre. The Fatu O le Moana programme of skills development workshops aims to develop budding female talent in Māori and Pasifika communities.
Grant says the workshops offer a bridging pathway for young Māori and Pasifika women who have experienced Red Leap’s work in schools and want to learn more.
Red Leap Theatre is very grateful for the contribution from the Your West Support Fund. ‘Developing strong networks with young people allows them to find self-expression through creativity and supports mental wellbeing,’ says Grant.
And it ensures that more young people in The West get to experience the thrill of live theatre.
