Aid for youth at vital stage

Massive Company says its focus is supporting diversity. Photo / Supplied

Theatre performance is a passion in which more and more young people are getting involved - and turning into a career.

The Massive Company Trust in South Auckland helps aspiring performers perfect and learn more about their art to further their chances of becoming successful in the business.

The trust runs workshops, productions, tours and mentoring schemes for young and upcoming artists.

It is one of 12 charities to receive a $10,000 grant in this year's 12 Days of Christmas campaign run by Auckland Airport. The money comes thanks to travellers who donate unwanted currency at the airport during the year.

Massive Company Trust general manager Grant Mouldey said one of the key aims for the group - established 25 years ago - was to embrace diversity and to ensure that was reflected in the performance industry.

"Massive Company basically believes in the diversity of NZ culture and we develop as many young people as we can into a professional career in performance. We try to walk alongside our young performers until they are ready to start their own professional pathway."

Among the trust's alumni is actress and comedian Madeleine Sami, of Sione's Wedding and Top of The Lake fame, Wesley Dowdell, who worked on The World's Fastest Indian and Outrageous Fortune, as well as Beulah Koale, who appeared in Shortland Street and recently got a Hollywood break after being cast in the upcoming drama Thank You For Your Service.

Mr Mouldey said their grant money would go towards activities targeted at young people from South Auckland.

"I think the 12 Days of Christmas is a great initiative; it's a great way to put funds into great charities.

"Without support like this we would not be able to enhance and develop our young artists from diverse backgrounds - diversity is such an integral part of Kiwi culture," he said.

Auckland Airport spokeswoman Anna Cassels-Brown said they were happy to contribute to a cause helping connect young people with such an art form.

"It is great to see the trust developing and showcasing our theatre talent and we are really pleased to be able to support South Auckland actor workshops with this gift."

• For more info visit: massivecompany.co.nz

• Auckland Airport is giving away $120,000 as part of its 12 Days of Christmas initiative. Today's is the last charity to be profiled in the series.