About Us
TheatreWise is a new theatre company based in Ōtautahi. We are a charitable trust, with a focus on training and development for young people aged 16-22. We offer educational opportunities both on and off the stage through workshops, seminars, and our unique mentorship programme!
Dani Musgrave
Founder, Chairperson
Kia ora, my name is Dani Musgrave, and I am the founder and chairperson of TheatreWise. Theatre has been a massive passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I spent my childhood and teenage years performing on the stage, but in recent years I found my passion for the mahi that goes on behind the scenes. I noticed a massive gap in high quality, pre-professional opportunities for the 16-24 age group, and having always had a passion for business, I decided to fill that gap and create TheatreWise. I'm so excited to see TheatreWise grow and develop, and create opportunity and experience for this age group, and prepare young performers for the professional theatre world.
Bonnie Bonnar
Secretary
Kia ora! Ko Bonnie tōku ingoa. Being involved in theatre, in any aspect is one of my biggest passions and I am thrilled to be on the Theatrewise board which aims to ignite that very passion in the young people of Ōtautahi. I have previously held the positions of MUSOC President and Education & Alumni manager. I have performed in a number of shows over the years as well as being involved in a number of production teams. The theatre scene is one that cultivates a strong community, builds confidence, tells fantastic stories and I simply cannot wait for people to see what Theatrewise is going to do!
Heidi Cooper
Treasurer
Kia Ora, my name is Heidi and I’m the Treasurer on the board of Theatrewise. I’ve been heavily involved in the Christchurch theatre community since 2018 when I was in the band for Guys and Dolls. Since then I have been involved in a variety of capacities including; Musical Director, Band member, Repetiteur, Cast member and as Committee member on other boards. This variety of roles has helped me see the many different areas and perspectives of the musical theatre world. I want to help young people to have these same experiences, which is why I joined the board of Theatrewise and I hope to help bring Dani’s vision to life.
Emily Gunn
Trustee
Kia ora, my name is Emily Gunn. I am a recently admitted solicitor with a love for performing arts. Over the past few years I have performed in various productions with Showbiz Christchurch, North Canterbury Musicals, and MUSOC. The theatre community in Ōtautahi has been a source of inspiration and joy for me, whether I am performing in shows or watching them. I am constantly impressed by the talent throughout Canterbury, and am excited to be joining Theatrewise so that I can help bring opportunities for young people to participate in theatre, whether that be onstage or behind the scenes.