A dynamic new youth programme is set to launch at Centrepoint Theatre, bringing together kapa haka, acting, and improvisation in an exciting new initiative.

Designed for young people of all backgrounds, the programme offers a unique blend of performance practices grounded in Te Ao Māori, alongside contemporary theatre techniques. Through a series of engaging workshops, participants will explore storytelling, movement, and creative expression while building confidence and celebrating cultural identity.

The programme will run over 5 weeks, with up to 2 weekly 1.5-hour sessions, culminating in a vibrant community performance open to whānau, friends, and local residents.

Tutor - Kauri Williams: Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Sāmoan, Fijian, and Pākehā.

His recent screen credits include The Ridge (2025), in which he plays Teddy in a gripping murder mystery, and his ongoing role as the affably paranoid Todd Taylor in The Brokenwood Mysteries (2020–present). He also portrayed Whatukura in the acclaimed Māori drama Ahikaroa (2019–2021).

On stage, Kauri recently starred in Development piece working with Karetao (2025) James and Hinemoa Webster, also as Sonny in Albert Belz’s theatre piece Hyperspace (2024). He toured Aotearoa with Katie Wolfe’s powerful production The Haka Party Incident (2023), taking on the roles of Ben Dalton, Hone Harawira, and Tā Te Rangihīroa. He previously played Sonny in Astroman (2019) by Albert Belz, a Te Rēhia Theatre and Auckland Theatre Company co-production.

Kauri is also a proud kaihaka for Te Rōpū Manutaki.