Leki Jackson-Bourke is an emerging performing artist, and a graduate of the Pacific Institute of Performing Arts. He is of Tongan, Niuean and Samoan descent and has worked professionally as an actor, dancer, writer, director, producer, choreographer & stage manager. Leki first began working with Massive Company as an actor in the critically acclaimed devised theatre show, "THE BRAVE" which toured around NZ and Hawaii. Leki wants to develop as a director so he can ignite others through the creativity and magic of story telling, he also wants to help develop and nurture young emerging talent and he feels he is able to do that through directing. 

Wassssup! Just your average strong independent brown woman straight from the streets of Mangere, South Auckland - I'm Sieni and I'm 21 years old. From performing at church to joining Massive Company when I was sixteen years old and have been with them since. Through Massive Company I have been able to stick my fingers into a few things and get a feel of being on stage and behind the scenes! I have been in Massive Nui Ensemble since 2013 and have performed in showings regularly with them throughout the years. I was also one of six actors who traveled to Scotland to perform "The Island" at the National Theatre of Scotland Exchange Festival where ten companies from around the world came together to workshop and perform a devised show. I was also in the most recent show "Chance to Ignite" alongside a cast of six women. I want to take part in TDL 2018 as I have been an actor and stage manager but never had a chance to sit in the director's seat. I want to test my decision making and learn the ropes of a director. I'm not too sure if I will enjoy it or not but the best part is not knowing...and I can't wait to figure that out! I have been with Massive Company for five years and choose to stick with them because I know no other place that works as hard as them. I love that I am constantly challenged and being pushed past my limit. Massive has helped me share my stories in the best way I can through physical theatre. I can be my most honest self here and I am always given the chance to be brave and vulnerable!!! It is a space to bring your truth, fears, loves and everything else you have to offer. 

ROBERTO NASCIMENTO was born in Brazil and moved to New Zealand 15 years ago. Since then, he worked in theatre, TV and Film. In film, he directed short films, documentaries and two webseries. For theatre, he devised critically acclaimed solo show Zen Dog with actor Mick Innes (both seasons) and a range of short plays. Roberto first came across Massive Company as an actor, participating in several development workshops over the past 8 years - his goal is to keep growing as a director and the opportunity to work with Sam is extremely valuable. Having directed only short plays in the past, Roberto wants to work in ensemble pieces and longer works, as well as keep learning and nurturing emerging young talent - he loves stories about outsiders and real people, so The Director's Lab is a fantastic chance to fine tune his skills and hang out with great people.