About Us

We are a professional development studio dedicated to building actors, creating work, and serving community. Our mission is to provide affordable, high-quality training alongside real performance opportunities that help actors grow, transition, and thrive, whether they are new to the industry, developing their craft, or stepping forward from background roles into leading ones. By producing original shows, we create platforms for artists to practise their skills in real-world settings. By offering free performances for schools and accessible programming for seniors and the wider community, we ensure the arts are not only created but shared. We remove barriers, create pathways, and keep the creative ecosystem moving.

Jason Wu - creative director or The penniless performer

Jason Wu | Creative Director

(He/Him)

Founded by Jason Wu, an actor with 20 years in film, television, and theatre. This venture was built to give performers an affordable, creative space to grow between jobs. With credits including Matariki (2010), Westside (seasons 5 & 6), and national tours with Auckland Theatre Company and Hawaiki TU, Jason brings a deep understanding of the industry’s challenges - and a vision to make professional development accessible to all actors.

A message from Jason:

“I know what it’s like to wait months between acting jobs, picking up hospitality shifts just to stay afloat. I also know how costly - and repetitive - workshops can be, and how essential yet expensive headshots are. This space is my answer: a place where actors can sharpen their craft, connect with creatives, and access professional resources without the price tag holding them back.”

From our Creative Director