The challenges and highlights of pandemic theatre
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way many people live their lives, go about their work, and pursue their passions. We spoke with two Theatre alumni of Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington about how the pandemic has impacted their livelihoods and the production of theatre in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Eleanor Bishop, theatre director and alumna
Eleanor Bishop is a theatre director who graduated from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in 2009. Normally based between New York and New Zealand, the COVID-19 pandemic meant Eleanor had to limit her theatre work to one location, choosing to stay in New Zealand.
Izzie Lao, alumnus and lighting designer/actor
Izzie is a lighting designer and actor who graduated from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in 2018. Since then, they have been working as a lighting designer and an actor in Wellington.