Programme
NOTQ ‘24 Cast & CRew
Aeyla Samantha Duncan
Aeyla Samantha Duncan, a devoted trans performing artist, brings her passion and talent to the stage once again in this year's Night of The Queer. With a rich history of performances in the show's previous incarnations, Aeyla is thrilled to be part of the fabulous lineup once more. Beyond her contributions to Night of The Queer, Aeyla has been an integral member of Luck & Schooney since their production, Artimus, showcasing her enduring collaboration and strong relationship with the dynamic team. Aeyla's impressive credits also extend to dancing as a backup performer for Elektra Shock on Dancing with the Stars and participating in the Auckland performance for the Rupaul's Drag Race Down Under Tour 2022.
Her versatile talents and longstanding connection with Luck & Schooney continue to shine, making Aeyla a notable force in the world of performing arts.
Elliette Dean
Elliette is a sought-out musical theatre performer and choreographer within the Auckland theatre scene and has trained in many dance styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap and musical theatre from 2005-2020, as well as receiving private singing lessons from a range of tutors. Her credits include Wicked (NSMT 2023), Mary Poppins (G&T 2020), NOTQ (L&S 202) & Chicago (Stage It 2021) where she featured as Mona. She also recently co-choreographed and performed in NSMT’s Diamond Cabaret, featuring a variety of musical theatre numbers showcasing the history of NSMT. In both 2016 and 2017, Elliette was selected to train with New Zealand Performing Arts as a Junior Associate, which provided invaluable pre-professional training experience. Elliette has also recently assisted in producing two successful inclusive cabarets for SMAC. Outside of theatre, Elliette is entering her final year of study towards a Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Therapy at AUT, as well as teaching dance at Viva Kids. Elliette is excited to be re-joining the cast of NOTQ once again
Melanie Hessling
Melanie, an emerging circus artist passionate about burlesque, static, dance, and double trapeze, brings a diverse background in classical ballet and jazz. Having undergone full-time training at New Zealand Performing Arts, she is set to expand her creative horizons in 2024. Melanie's journey in the performing arts is marked by a keen interest in blending various disciplines and creating a unique and dynamic artistic expression.
This marks Melanie's debut performance with Luck & Schooney, a significant milestone after being captivated by their show "Naked and Dangerous." Witnessing their performance inspired her to join the company, recognising it as a creative space where she wanted to contribute her talents. As she steps onto the stage for the first time with Luck & Schooney, Melanie is excited to perform and explore new avenues within the circus world. Her goals for the year include further performances, the development of a cabaret show, and a deeper exploration of the circus arts.
Amrit Soma / Lady Armilade
Amrit, widely known as Lady Armilade, has a 15-year career in dance, with notable roles in productions such as ‘PTC’s’ Mamma Mia, Dusty: The Original Pop Diva, ‘PPA’s’ Little Shop of Horrors, ’DT’ Kiwifruits and ‘CTC’s’ Priscilla Queen of the Desert. His creative journey expanded as he assumed the role of Choreographer for the PTC Sold-Out Season of Mamma Mia in 2021, showcasing his multifaceted talents. This marks Amrit's second collaboration with Luck & Schooney, his being Night of The Queer 2023.
Amrit is thrilled to bring his expertise to the stage once again for the fabulous Night of The Queer production.
His passion for dance and choreography continues to see him working and creating in the Auckland theatre scenes.
Ellyce Bisson
Ellyce, a New Zealand-based dancer and aerialist specialising in aerial hoop, has traversed the globe over the past two years, dedicating herself to training and performing in prestigious circus spaces and theatres. Now returning to Auckland, she eagerly embraces the opportunity to contribute to her favourite queer cabaret. Ellyce's journey in the world of performance arts has been marked by her remarkable skills in aerial hoop, captivating audiences with her graceful and dynamic performances. Since the inaugural Night of The Queer in 2018, she has been an integral part of Luck & Schooney, infusing her talent and passion into the vibrant fabric of the cabaret. Beyond her contributions to Luck & Schooney, Ellyce has also left her mark on other top entertainment companies in New Zealand, showcasing her versatility and artistry.
With her unique style and international experience, Ellyce continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression within the dynamic realm of aerial and dance.
Melissa Duff
Mel is a contemporary performing artist, currently working across the dance and circus worlds in Tāmaki Makaurau. Mel graduated from Unitec’s Bachelors of Performing and Screen Arts (majoring in Contemporary Dance) in 2019. She then went on to study with Dust Palace’s Pre-Professional program in 2022, and their Teacher Training program in 2023. After preforming in Night of The Queer in 2021, as an Elf, Mel is thrilled to be returning to be the cast again this year. Other highlights of Mel’s performing works include; ‘To Cut a Mermaids Tongue’ (2020) choreographed by Kyah Dove for Experimental Dance Week, ‘Sunny Double Bedroom’ (2023) with The Dust Palace pre-professional program - directed by James Clement, and ‘Retail Therapy’ (2023) choreographed by Brandon Ross. Beyond performing Mel also spends a lot of her time fascinated by visual arts and enjoys taking photos.
She also actively teaches across The Dust Palace and Altitude Pole (Takapuna), sharing her passion for movement exploration within aerials and circus.
Colette Winks
Colette, a graduate of the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts (London 2012) with a three-year Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre, has a rich background in the performing arts. Her journey began with childhood/teenage appearances in renowned venues like the London Palladium (To Die For), Shaw, Wimbledon, Savoy Theatres, and the Apollo Theatre London (Wicked). Her versatility extended to her involvement in a hip-hop crew and she has left her mark in TV commercials (NSPCC), music videos, and as a backing dancer on Strictly Come Dancing adverts (Nike, It Takes Two). She choreographed Auckland's first all-inclusive Musical Theatre (Madagascar Junior) with Touch Compass Company and repertoire includes performances in productions ‘like We Will Rock You’, ‘Night of The Queer’, and ‘The Incredible and Glorious World According to the Fitzroys.’ Colette is currently Teaching a variety of dance and performance styles throughout Auckland.
Josh Morris
Josh is a dancer/performer/choreographer residing in Auckland. He has trained as a dancer since he was five years old in a variety of styles including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Ballroom and Latin. He’s a former NZ Youth Ballroom and Latin Champion and has trained/taught at multiple schools, studios and theatres around Auckland including Ucan2, Neverland, Kristin School, Murrays Bay Intermediate, and Centrestage Theatre. Most notably he is working with Smoky Mirror Arts Company, a performance company which gives neurodiverse and marginalised young adults the opportunity to perform in a safe and caring environment. Notable credits include playing Andy Lee in 42nd Street, We Will Rock You as their only dance swing, a featured dancer in Night of the Queer 2020, Wayne Burns in Strictly Ballroom, Robby the Stockfish in Urinetown, Chistery in Wicked, an Angel in the NZ premiere of Kinky Boots, and Roger in Grease.
THea Rockel
Thea is an experienced performer with a passion for story telling and commercial dance. With fourteen years dance training she has achieved top world exam marks and has competed at international Levels in America. Currently teaching at Danza with her APDA teacher certificate and she loves working with kids. She also teaches competition work and tutors dance across West Auckland’s primary schools. Thea has performance experience with stage, video and gigging work. Some of her most recent work includes Christmas in the Park, music video work for upcoming band FanClub, and co-choreographing for Danza’s section of the Auckland Pride Parade.
Thea has enjoyed watching Night of the Queer the last couple of years and has really enjoyed the atmosphere and joy from the performers. She cannot wait to make her mark on the stage this year with the 2024 cast.
Creatives
James Luck
James graduated from full-time dance training in Sydney, Australia, in 2010. Since then, he has been working consistently 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. James worked as a freelance choreographer for resorts and cruise ships throughout Europe following his time in the UK.
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 educating and international experience has seen him held in high regard by many global studios and dance companies. He is proud to pass on knowledge and skills to the next generation through teaching as well as producing works.
Rebekkah Schoonbeek-Berridge
Rebekkah Schoonbeek-Berridge (Ngāti Maru) is an in-demand performer, choreographer, singer, actress and dance educator/adjudicator in Tāmaki Makaurau. She graduated University of Auckland, completing her post-graduate diploma in Dance Studies, and trained in New York at Broadway Dance Centre. Rebekkah has credits with various companies, including Auckland Theatre Company's ‘Shortland Street The Musical' (original cast recording) & 'Chicago'. 'Pleasuredome the Musical', '42nd Street’, Blues Rugby, Les Mills Gym, Diamond Entertainment and Sky City Entertainment. Music videos (Marlon Williams, Stan Walker, William Waiiru) TV work (X-Factor, Dancing with the Stars, Jono & Ben)
She was a part of the Contemporary Indigenous Dance Residency- Banff Arts Centre, Canada. And in 2022 & 2019, performed with 'Two Hearts’ - Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Her choreographic range extends many dance styles, performances and Musicals. With several choreographic pieces for festivals: Tempo, Auckland Fringe, Short + Sweet- receiving the 'Stand out Female Performer Award' for her contemporary piece, 'The Crickets Have Arthritis.’.