You are both very connected to Q and have a long history with our whare. Can you tell us a bit more about that?
Michael: I am a patron of Q and was part of the initial discussion and fundraising efforts back when the concept and development of Q was taking place. I've also performed and directed in all of Q's spaces over the years.
Jennifer: I've also been involved with Q since the beginning - it's quite special to have seen it blossom and develop from those initial discussions we were part of. I also composed, alongside Jo Pannell, the Q Theatre waiata. This waiata is sung by the Q team when artists and companies are welcomed into the venue to present their work.
What does Q mean to you?
Jennifer: When I think of Q, I think of atmosphere. It really is a great place to be pre and post-shows.
Michael: Like Jennifer said, Q has atmosphere and it's such an essential arts hub. If I had to choose one place to make impactful productions, I would choose Q every time for its flexibility and intimate size.
What is one of your favourite memories at Q from over the years?
Michael: I directed a production of Lysistrata some years ago, and I have very powerful, delightful memories of Rangatira being filled with audiences who were thrilled by this over 2,000-year-old piece. Rangatira was totally transformed for the show - the flexibility of the venue and the intimate nature of the space is what made it all possible.
Jennifer: One of my favourite memories is performing in The Book of Everything (presented by Silo Theatre). At each performance, I'd peep out the curtains and look at the audience to ascertain which children might want to come on stage at the end of the show. I could also see my son, who was working in the front of house team. It was a very special time!
Why do you think it's essential to have venues and platforms like Q in the performing arts industry?
Michael: We need spaces that promote creativity and allow for different types of performance. Q is an essential space that is available to different groups - it showcases the variety and diversity in our industry, which is so important.
Jennifer: Couldn't have said it better than that.
What's your next project coming up at Q?
Jennifer: We are coming back for a return season of In Other Words on 11 and 12 April in Rangatira. We had beautiful full houses for this work last year, and I'm looking forward to returning for three more performances.
Michael: Yes, and this work is extra special in that Jennifer and I play a real-life couple on stage. It's a very moving story and we can't wait to be back in Rangatira to share it with more audiences.
We are humbled by Jennifer and Michael's kind words about Q, and honoured to be a venue that they are both so closely involved with on many different levels. However, we can't continue to do what we do without the support of our community! This year's Q: EXPOSED! fundraiser is all about Powering Up Q - can you help us reach our goal of $36k by the end-of-tax year on 31 March? Click here to learn more or to make a donation.
Image credit: Jennifer and Michael performing in In Other Words, photo by Megan Goldsman
