Free Theatre Ensemble
The company works as an ensemble. The ensemble trains regularly, incorporating different styles, forms and media into its experimentation as a means of exploring the ideas that are central to the project at hand. The ensemble brings a range of skills and talents to the table, which feed and direct the work the company produces. Each production can involve a variety of new collaborations with organisations (for example the UC School of Music, CSO, Pacific Underground, A Different Light, NASDA, Te Ahikōmau a Hamoterangi, Te Pao a Tahu, Circotica and the Seven Oaks Community) and performers (for example Demarnia Lloyd, Mark Vanilau, Marcus Winstanley, Daniel Cooper and the Seasoning Ensemble, Pascal Ackermann, Jonty O'Connor, Violet French, Geoff Low, Best Bets, Yurt Party, Dark Matter, Pikachunes and many others across our series of Ubu Nights and recent productions).
Hundreds of collaborators have been involved in 100 productions since 1979. We interviewed two of them (Nansi Thompson and Stuart McKenzie) for a recent project. Below are current and recent members of the company. Click on images below to learn more.
Hundreds of collaborators have been involved in 100 productions since 1979. We interviewed two of them (Nansi Thompson and Stuart McKenzie) for a recent project. Below are current and recent members of the company. Click on images below to learn more.
Current Ensemble Members
Recent Ensemble Members
Committee
Free Theatre is an Incorporated Society and decisions are made by our Committee who meet regularly to discuss Free Theatre projects and concerns. Our current Committee Members are:
President: Peter Falkenberg
Vice-President: Reuben Derrick
Secretary: Marian McCurdy
Treasurer: Greta Bond
Member: Aaron Hāpuku
Member: Sue Hassell
Since 2018 when a Strategic Plan was completed with the help of Providence Group, Michael Prentice continues to support the Committee providing advice around strategic direction.
Michael Prentice is an independent brand and communications strategist, having previously run and lead strategic development for design and advertising agencies. He has a long history of supporting the arts - including founding Chair of The Black Grace Trust (contemporary dance); Director of the Aotea Board of Management (performing arts facilities), and Trustee of Auckland Opera Studio. He is currently a member of the Arts Council for Creative New Zealand.
President: Peter Falkenberg
Vice-President: Reuben Derrick
Secretary: Marian McCurdy
Treasurer: Greta Bond
Member: Aaron Hāpuku
Member: Sue Hassell
Since 2018 when a Strategic Plan was completed with the help of Providence Group, Michael Prentice continues to support the Committee providing advice around strategic direction.
Michael Prentice is an independent brand and communications strategist, having previously run and lead strategic development for design and advertising agencies. He has a long history of supporting the arts - including founding Chair of The Black Grace Trust (contemporary dance); Director of the Aotea Board of Management (performing arts facilities), and Trustee of Auckland Opera Studio. He is currently a member of the Arts Council for Creative New Zealand.
