About Us

artistic directors | choreographers | performers | Producers

Luck & Schooney, a dynamic artistic duo comprising James Luck and Rebekkah Schoonbeek, have contributed to the vibrant and diverse landscape of New Zealand's Performance Industry for over seven years.  Against the backdrop of Michael Hurst’s reimagining of Chicago the musical, a partnership evolved into a staple of the nation's artistic scene.  Fresh from performances in London and training in New York, Luck & Schooney bring a wealth of international experience to their collaboration.  Specialising in Dance Theatre and Cabaret, the duo crafts shows infused with passion, humour, and emotion.  Through their expertise in Dance, Circus, Burlesque, Drag, and Music, they create captivating performances that highlight the talents of queer multi-disciplinary artists and the LGBTQI+ community.

Why We Do What We Do:
At Luck & Schooney, we celebrate exceptional talent and foster positivity within and beyond our vibrant community.  We take pride in our ability to create safe spaces which fuel artists' creativity, allowing them to explore the boundaries of their practice.  

Our big-picture goal?  Cultivating a supportive performance environment that champions success in the arts and helps artists discover their creative niche.  We're here for the thrill of entertaining, crafting performances for audiences from all walks of life to enjoy while strongly emphasising performer safety and well-being. 

Our Aims:
Queer Excellence: Our platform aims to celebrate and elevate LGBTQIA+ talent by providing a clear and positive example of excellence within the community.
Safe Spaces: Luck & Schooney are dedicated to establishing safe spaces where artists, particularly LGBTQIA+ youth, can build confidence, receive positive feedback, and thrive creatively.
Financial stability for artists: To effect positive and lasting change for artists, we must look beyond Pride month.  We aim to create year-round work opportunities, foster financial independence, and empower artists through workshops and mentorship for successful and sustainable careers.

Rebekkah Schoonbeek

Rebekkah Schoonbeek-Berridge (Ngāti Maru) is a highly regarded performer, choreographer and dance educator/adjudicator based in Tāmaki Makaurau. She holds a post-graduate diploma in Dance Studies from the University of Auckland and received training at New York's Broadway Dance Centre.

Her theatrical performance credits span various productions, including Auckland Theatre Company's 'Shortland Street The Musical' and 'Chicago,' 'Pleasuredome the Musical,' and ‘42nd Street.’ Some notable roles include Anne Elliot- in "Persuasion," Annie Wilkes in "Misery," Eliza in "Picket Fence People," and Vanessa in "In The Heights." 

Her choreographic work has been seen in a wide range of settings, including theatre productions (Basement X-Mas, Rock Follies Forever, Night of the Queer), musicals (We Will Rock You, West Side Story, Be More Chill), music videos (“Running Wild” - INDIGO, “Currents of Black Blood” - Yan Yates), TV (My Life is Murder, Media Works, DWTS). She is a regular choreographer with Diamond Entertainment and other companies for corporate events, and her works have been featured in festivals like Tempo, Auckland Fringe, and Short + Sweet, where her contemporary piece 'The Crickets Have Arthritis' earned her the 'Stand out Female Performer Award.'

Some dance credits include appearances alongside Marlon Williams, Stan Walker, and William Waiirua, as well as on TV shows like 'X-Factor,' 'Dancing with the Stars,' and 'Jono & Ben.' Internationally, she participated in the Contemporary Indigenous Dance Residency at the Banff Arts Centre in Canada and performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (2022 & 2019) with 'Two Hearts Comedy Duo.’ 

With more than 12 years of commitment to dance education, she has developed curricula and taught at various institutions around Aotearoa.

For more information, see rebekkahschoonbeek.com

James Luck

James graduated from full-time dance training in Sydney, Australia, in 2010. Since then, he has consistently worked in the industry overseas and in New Zealand as a performer, choreographer, and director for stage and screen.

Spending a portion of his career in the United Kingdom, James has performed alongside big names such as Jessie J, Sia, Tom Jones, Little Mix, and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and was a featured dancer in the 2012 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony for Annie Lennox. Following his time in the UK, James worked as a freelance choreographer for resorts and cruise ships throughout Europe.

Since relocating to Auckland, he has become a highly sought-after performer and choreographer for high-profile events and shows, including Chicago (ATC), Billy Elliot (ATC), Dancing With The Stars, and Pleasuredome the Musical.

James’s passion for education and international experience have earned him high regard from many global studios and dance companies. He is proud to pass on knowledge and skills to the next generation through teaching and producing works.

For more information, see elektrajames.com