artistic directors | choreographers | performers | Producers

Luck & Schooney are a dynamic artistic duo composed of James Luck and Rebekkah Schoonbeek, who have been at the forefront of New Zealand’s performance industry for over seven years. Their creative partnership began during Michael Hurst’s acclaimed reimagining of Chicago the Musical. With international experience—including performances in London & Scotland and training in New York and Australia —Luck & Schooney bring a wealth of global knowledge and innovation to their craft.

Specialising in theatre, dance, and cabaret, they produce acclaimed full-scale productions, commercial events, corporate entertainment, and intimate cabarets infused with passion, humour, and emotion. Drawing from expertise across dance, circus, burlesque, drag, and music, the duo creates compelling work that champions queer multi-disciplinary artists and celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community.

Their performances have captivated notable audiences across Aotearoa, and they have earned a reputation for their creativity, precision, and artistry.

Why We Do What We Do

At Luck & Schooney, we do what we do because we believe in the power of performance to bring people together, inspire change, and celebrate diversity. We are passionate about creating opportunities for artists to thrive in safe, supportive, and empowering spaces. By championing queer excellence, we aim to elevate LGBTQIA+ voices by celebrating their skills and talents as artists.

We are driven by the need to foster sustainable careers for artists. We aim to create consistent opportunities—providing work, mentorship, and financial stability so artists can confidently pursue their craft year-round.

Ultimately, we do this because we love the thrill of storytelling and entertainment. Our work is building a stronger, more supportive arts community that inspires, uplifts and leaves a lasting impact on all who engage with us.

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