STATEMENTS OF SUPPORT FOR MONFU 2024
From the artists who participated in Monfu’s monthly and triannual shows and Monfu Summer School.
Gabby Anderson gabbyc.anderson@gmail.com
2023 Billy T Award Nominee
I have appeared in several of Monfu shows this year including Soapbox, Club Sandwich and Club Sandwich ‘Upsized.” Soapbox has been an invaluable contribution to the open mic scene in terms of providing a supportive, safe space for women, non-binary artists to try new things. As someone who was on the line up for several Soapbox shows in 2022 and 2023, I found the kindness with which they produced the show to be very special. In particular, they checked in with us all beforehand in the greenroom and, in this, set a warm tone for the show, encouraged us to support one another by being in the audience, had unique walk-on music for each of us, and made sure everyone got home safely, following this up with messages and offering money for Uber if anyone needed it. This is important especially for new artists, often young artists, performing just off Courtenay Place, which is not a safe environment. I loved being part of the show and am very keen for it to return. They are doing the groundwork in building community, and contributing to the scene by making this space for women, non-binary artists. This is much needed on the scene as so often gender diversity is underrepresented at open mic level.Lesa Mac-Leod-Whiting lesamacleod@gmail.com
2020 Grand Finalist, NZ Raw Comedy Quest
2020 Best Newcomer, Wellington Comedy Awards
I have performed in Monfu's professional shows, Club Sandwich which was a brilliant experience as a comic. There are few paid opportunities as a comic in which you are offered a longer set time (15-20+ mins) which is crucial as a developing act and as someone who is working towards their debut solo hour at the NZ International Comedy Festival. Gigs like Club Sandwich offer a chance for performers to really develop their longer sets and build a relationship with the audience. It's a welcoming, professional environment and with such a curanted line up, the audience is always guaranteed a high quality show. I'm excited to continue performing at Monfu shows and look forward to the opportunities their shows provide as I grow and develop as a comic in a safe and professionally produced space. Em Barrett emmalouisebarrett54@gmail.com
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have always appreciated the safe and inclusive environment Monfu cultivates, as well as fostering different types of comedy and encouraging me to pursue my own style as a character comedian. They bring together performers from all walks of life, and I’m proud to be a part of their community.Mx. Well/Maxwell Apse maxwellapsenz@gmail.com
I'm Mx. Well, a non-binary musical comedian, and I was a part of Monfu’s experimental comedy show "Chop Shop." "Chop Shop" was way more than just a show – it was a super-welcoming space that allowed me to work on my comedic chops and also lift up queer voices. Monfu's dedication to diversity is sorely needed in this industry. I was fortunate enough to work on this show as a writer, performer and MC, it was one of the first comedy writing rooms I've been a part of, often it's hard to break into something like that as a marginalised identity, so I really appreciated Monfu hold space for us.I'm 110% behind Monfu's mission to create spaces that give a platform to folks like me, and I'm so excited to endorse what they're doing.Opeti Vaka opetivaka@gmail.com
Kia ora my name is Opeti Vaka and I have performed in Monfu production shows. I felt very safe and welcome. They always have great diverse lineups. They have helped me grow tremendously. They encouraged me to grow my skill set of traditional stand up comedy to trying alternative comedy. I’m very grateful they are able to run shows and I look forward to working with them again.Zach Mandeville webmaster@coolguy.website
My name is Zach Mandeville and I am a comedian in Te Whanganui-a-tara. I am writing to express my gratitude and support to Monfu productions. I was fortunate enough to perform at Club Sandwich in June of this year. Monfu made performing a breeze, with clear, well-prepared organization beforehand, awesome promos, and quick and clear handling of the financial matters after. Better than all this, though, was getting to perform for a full house of enthusiastic comedy goers who were there to see a different kind of comedy show. Diversity strengthens our community and our artform. Monfu adds diversity not just in their lineups, but in the type of comedy they feature. They are making strange, delightful shows that are unlike most other nights, and are doing it with professionalism and pizzazz. I am grateful to them as both a performer and a comedy fan and am honoured to be able to voice my support.Amy Booth amyjdbooth@gmail.com
This is a letter in support of Monfu Productions for their continued show season in 2024. As a non binary comedian/clown I’ve always felt supported in both my work and my queer identity. I’ve worked with Monfu multiple times over the last three years as a performer and the support I’ve received from Trent and Sachie is invaluable. Monfu consistently provides a safe and fun space to work on my craft as a comedian, whether it’s through shows like Soapbox where performers can test new material or Chop Shop where I got the chance to work in an ensemble cast. Monfu delivers a professional workspace without sacrificing the joy and excitement of performance. I hope to see them receive the support they deserve, as they have supported so many within the community.
Hoani Hotene holahoani@gmail.com
I've been lucky to work with Trent and Sachie on a few shows and gained so much insight into the world of performing and producing. They've created a wonderful atmosphere aat each of their high quality shows which are produced in a uniquely MONFU way. Trent and Sachie are world-class performers and producers and as a performer in this city I've learnt a lot from them about the professionalism and quality required to be a full time artist. They've cultivated a beautiful culture within the scene and myself and others have been able to flourish while feeling safe and enjoying the entire experience. Wellington is given another way to be creative through MONFU shows. They make a space for comedy for those outside the lines and I think the art scene in the city becomes a more interesting and diverse landscape because of it. Not only do I feel I've become a stronger performer through working with MONFU, I feel I've connected better to the scene. I am always eager to keep working with Trent and Sachie.
Leki Lyons lekilyons@gmail.com
My name is Leki Lyons and I am very happy to write this letter of support for Monfu. I have worked on many of their shows as a technician for close to two years. I also perform stand-up comedy. A lot of the other shows in Wellington just saw me as tech and wouldn't always give me stage time, but Trent and Sachie always gave me space to try my routine in a professional environment and that helped me get better. I've regularly appeared in Chop Shop, did a pro-spot in Club Sandwich and they trust me to tech Soapbox too.
The only way their shows could get more Wellington is if they got that guy from the mall that dresses like a tree. Apparently they're planning to if they get the funding!Samantha Hannah Samanthajaynehannah@gmail.com
I've appeared in a couple of Monfu's Club Sandwich shows, Lucky Cat Comedy Show and participated in their Art Of the Solo Show Workshop. Their events have really given me a supportive, fun and super professional space to develop my craft. I also like the performers that they book along side me and it makes for a really good vibe in the green room which I always appreciate. I think they deserve to be supported because they really add to the diverse ecosystem of comedy and the arts in Wellington. More gender balanced line-ups and exciting concepts for quality shows that always pull new audiences. Plus they always pay promptly and that really contributes to me having a viable career in the arts. I workshopped my solo show with them also for the New Zealand International Comedy Festival and as experienced performers they are generous with their knowledge and time so it really contributed to such a big project. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to work on their solo show and would sign up to another in a heart beat. As international artists I'm glad they're in Wellington and I hope they get to continue to do more great work here! Orin Ruaine-Prattley orinruaineprattley@gmail.com
I have performed in multiple Monfu comedy shows in the past year, namely the two series 'Chop Shop' and 'Club Sandwhich'. I will breakdown their value in the Wellington comedy scene below. Chop Shop is an alternative comedy show, where stand up comedians are encouraged to experiment. This may mean, doing character comedy or playing with costume, using song or dance. This show helps stand up comedians go beyond traditional stand up (standing with a mic and telling jokes) and gives them a space to unlock new parts of their comedic ability. It also helps that the show is marketed as "alternative comedy" so the audience expects to see something a bit different, this ultimately makes the performers feel more comfortable trying something new. Club Sandwhich is an all star comedy show, where acts get to do 20 minute spots. The value in this show is the length of the spot, as it's very rare for comedians to be offered 20 minute spots on the regular circuit. Such spots are really useful for telling longer pieces of material, and are especially useful for those wanting to release their own longer shows in Fringe Festivals or in the NZ Comedy Fest. Finally, my favourite experience of Monfu is the effort they put in to make everyone comfortable backstage. It's simple things like having an all inclusive pre show talk or making sure people get home safe that makes these shows enjoyable and safe. I also often refer any women or non-binary comics to the women/non-binary Monfu show 'Soap Box'. As I know it will be a supportive space for those comics, and often will be a better measure of their material! As the regular comedy circuit is male dominated in it's performers, but also in what the audience are expecting to see. It would be great for Monfu to continue providing comfortable and diverse spaces in the scene!Kate Spencer (aka Creatif Kate) kateconquerstheworld@gmail.com
I write in support of Monfu Productions monthly open-hearted mic night SOAPBOX. I am both a performer and producer and am delighted to have this ongoing show in the calendar of events. Sachie and Trent have created an incredibly warm, supportive, inclusive, and most importantly a safe space for women and non-binary performers to hone their craft. There are very few, if any, open mic comedy/poetry/musical nights catering only to women and non-binary performers in Wellington. SOAPBOX is vital to the ongoing uplifting of these voices, giving opportunities to get in front of audiences, and for performers to build confidence in trying new material. I have both watched SOAPBOX as a producer interested in finding talent to hire for my shows, and performed as a comedian/poet (a Comet!) refining new bits. SOAPBOX is an invaluable and irreplaceable asset to the Wellington performing community and I support the show and producers whole-heartedly. I urge you to look favourably on their application so they can continue the mahi. Elisa Bonnafous elisa.bonnafous.studio@gmail.com
I was fortunate enough to participate in the January edition of SOAPBOX as a performer, marking my very first visit to Wellington. Having only begun my stand-up comedy journey three months prior, I was truly grateful for the exceptional support and guidance provided by the team. They warmly welcomed me, ensuring I had all the necessary information and assistance in the Green room. Moreover, it was the first time I was allotted 8 minutes on stage, a generous extension compared to the usual 6 minutes granted to newcomers. The curated audience was incredibly kind, making me feel at ease throughout the entire show. Additionally, the Monfu team ensured my safe journey home following the performance. Though these may appear to be simple gestures, they are far from commonplace. I hold tremendous admiration for the Monfu team, as they taught me how an inclusive comedy lineup can be achieved and how a safe space for sharing can exist. This experience left me with a profound sense of community and tranquility, one that I hope to carry with me and impart upon other comedians.Sam Galloway samanthagalloway.1@gmail.com
I performed at SOAPBOX in January 2023 trying out some new physical comedy in my set. You provide an inclusive, creative and positive environment to performers to try out new things. You were both so welcoming in your production skills before, during and after the show. You clearly care about your audience, your own creativity, giving space for everyone to feel safe and accepted, and that shines through in your shows and also in all correspondence. Monfu is a huge asset to the Wellington creative community. You guys are strong and brave at keeping things a little different and intimate - the SOAPBOX stage was in the round which was fun. You are very clear in your intentions and you are a great team. Very inspiring! You guys care about professional development - it was great to see Trent in Auckland at the Comedy Sandpit digital workshopping event. He was kind to come over to chat to me as I only knew one other person there at the time. Monfu is a force for good and, as a midlife woman very new to stand up and feeling particularly vulnerable due to memory recall issues and time blindness, I felt totally supported. The audience was friendly, production was smooth and timely. I especially appreciated Sachie and Trent letting all the non-male perforformers at SOAPBOX that we just needed to ask if we needed funds to travel home safely after the show.All round, they are both very good eggs (especially Egg!) Please reach out if I can provide any further information. Thanks for all that you guys do! Love your mahi.Oh forgot to mention that I am autistic and ADHD, with AuDHD kids. Mums in midlife need all the help they can get to express themselves creatively in a safe environment. This also goes for Wellingtonians having an intimate creative show they can go and watch, to feel part of a warm group and have a laugh. It is vital for our mental health. Mariel Lettier mariel.lettier@gmail.com
My name is Mave and I have been performing as a stand-up comedian for the last two years. I arrived in New Zealand last November and, as expected when moving to a new place, it has taken me a while to get into the local scene.I was lucky to perform in the Soapbox Open Mic for the first time last July. The Monfu team was incredibly supportive and ensured me and the rest of the performers had a safe space from the moment we were booked for the show. Upon arriving at the venue, I felt not only looked after but part of a community, which was amazing to feel for the first time after leaving my previous comedy family behind. I believe it is extremely valuable to have femme and queer spaces in the comedy scene, where we feel safe, our talent is showcased, we are given the opportunities we deserve and are presented with a welcoming and supportive audience as well.Soapbox Open Mic is an asset to the Wellington performance community and a crucial space for performers like me. I am extremely happy to be able to take part in the shows and hope I am able to continue doing so for the foreseeable future.Shiyi Redpath ph0589@gmail.com
My name is Shiyi Redpath. I am a cabaret performer in Wellington and I recently performed a set of poetry at Monfu’s SOAPBOX in July 2023. SOAPBOX was my debut performing poetry on stage, and it was so welcoming. Monfu and the rest of the cast were supportive and kind even as I was full of jitters backstage. As a newcomer who doesn’t have a lot of credentials in the poetry space, it is incredibly important to me that places like SOAPBOX exist. SOAPBOX was a space for me to test out and craft new content, but in a gentle and accepting way. The audience for SOAPBOX isn’t aggressive, or tough, or brash; it’s a safe audience - that’s an explicit part of the kaupapa. That’s especially important for me as a trans woman as our experiences and emotions are often treated in wider society with a level of suspicion, and I wouldn’t have wanted to have been heckled. But I left SOAPBOX feeling really positive. Since performing in the July SOAPBOX, I am more confident in my writing and have actually been booked for a couple of shows where I get to showcase my writing (like This Could Be a Podcast, which I’ve just come home from). I’m also writing more. I’m so incredibly grateful; I’ve wanted to pursue poetry and writing for a long time but have always been too nervous to take them up. I know that my voice is valuable, and I have SOAPBOX to thank for that. I believe that it is vital that Pōneke continues to have spaces like SOAPBOX for creatives so that we are able to test out and debut new material, so that people from marginalised communities can feel safe to share their experiences and emotions while being uplifted, and so that performers have spaces to network with likeminded people and develop as performers. Aidan Hyland aidanhylandcomedy@gmail.com
I was very flattered to be asked to perform as part of Monfu's Chop Shop show which was a super fun show where I was able to express myself in a variety of ways comedically. To have the encouragement to be myself and perform silly and absurd stuff is so appreciated when other shows often make me feel a need to change who I am to play more to what the crowd expects. To be paid from the gig is a real bonus and enables me to develop material with more confidence that I can perform for audiences who are open-minded and receptive to acts which are creative and unique. Monfu's creation of inclusive, safe and fun spaces is massive in giving up and coming performers the environment needed to grow and also develop connections with like-minded creatives across Wellington.With most open-mic shows in Wellington typically having more male performers, Monfu also plays a key role in creating spaces where female and non-binary comedians can get started, particularly with their Soapbox open-mic show. Soapbox plays an important role in giving new comedians the opportunity to get comfortable on stage in a welcoming environment and also plays a role in helping up and comers to develop their acts further. Monfu's commitment to diversity and inclusivity is so appreciated as Monfu amplifies underrepresented voices in comedy.
Monfu is also a huge part of the Wellington comedy scene and the style of their shows are quintessentially Wellington with their joy, diversity and inclusivity. As an up and coming performer, I have seen a lot of my peers move to places like Auckland and Melbourne where there are creative ecosystems which offer significantly more opportunities. If Wellington is to consider itself as a city of vibrant arts and culture, commitment to supporting shows run by producers like Monfu needs to be central to that. Hadley Wilson hadleymcwilson@gmail.com
My name is Hadley Wilson and I am writing in support of Monfu’s SOAPBOX open-mic for all women and non-binary artists. I participated in SOAPBOX as a poetic, storytelling standup comedian and found the experience to be incomparable. The kaupapa that Sachie and her team create is so special and priceless. I learn so much from them about how to run a show, a meeting, a workplace. How to be an artist, how to be present and kind. I try to take their warmth and presence with me when I run my own shows, try to emulate the skill and generosity they exhibit. I believe SOAPBOX is an asset to the Wellington performance community because it is one of the absolute BEST organisations I’ve ever been a part of anywhere in the world. Ten out of ten would Soapbox again.
Sowmya Hiremath sowmya2709@gmail.com
Monfu Productions is what Wellington needs, as a performer and producer of Fringe festival 2022 show "Funny Femmes in the festival" , there is real shortage to safe and inclusive spaces for women and non-binary performers. Monfu is helping fill this gap, the producers actively keep the line up diverse, and make sure the performers are well-taken care of and everyone feels included. They deserve all the love and funding to support the local artist.Damian Gordon podclown@gmail.com
I attended the Monfu Summer School in Wellington and found it to be a very rewarding experience. With well though- out and run exercises that were led by Trent and Sachie in a supportive and encouraging way. The feedback that was given was insightful and on-point.As an older participant with a history of clown/circus, ,the weekend was refreshing, informative and downright enjoyable.Gabrielle Raz-Liebman gabs.y.rl@gmail.com
I absolutely loved the Monfu Summer School. It was exactly what I needed to progress practically with the ideas I’ve been working on recently, with grounded and supportive feedback that I felt supported my best and genuine self. I especially appreciated that the group was kept small, as this allowed enough time for everyone and stronger relationships to grow between the players. Sachie and Trent have such a wealth of knowledge and experience and I can’t wait to work with them again! Sean Martin seandugdalemartin97@gmail.com
Monfu Summer School was AWESOME.Sachie & Trent are generous masters of their craft and don't hold back when sharing their knowledge with others. Because of their Summer School weekend I managed to make leaps and bounds with the physicality of my solo show and was led through a supportive, encouraging environment. The lessons I learned from this weekend will be re-used and not soon forgotten.Lucien Rose lucienrose13@gmail.com
Events like SOAPBOX are so important for emerging artists. Opportunities like this have been essential for my development as a writer and a performer. It provides a platform for voices often excluded from mainstream media and a chance to get your work out there and practise your artistry. Shows like this are the heart of creative communities and I’m very grateful to be given these opportunities.Kristeene Parkes sooty.p@xtra.co.nz
I have been part of Monfu's SOAPBOX productions over 2022. I applaud them on their efficient communication and updates for each show, which are always timely and informative. Their shows are organised so that they are friendly, provide a 'safe space' for performers of 'alternative perspectives'. What I like most is that performers are given a choice of being part of the audience before they go on stage or remain in the Green Room. For me, being with the audience creates a sense of community among performer and audience, adding to the relaxing and safe atmosphere that Monfu aims for each show they put on. As a result, I look forward to being part of their shows, and hope they get adequate funding to continue throughout 2023.Jac Lynch mojojack964@gmail.com
I was a performer and also emceed SOAPBOX open-mic and love how Monfu are making inclusivity a foundation for their shows and creating a safe space for performers and audience. Rose Northey roseanorthey@gmail.com
SOAPBOX continues to be my favourite open mic night in Wellington. I love performing new content as the atmosphere backstage is so supportive and the crowds are warm. A couple of my friends attended a soapbox as audience earlier this year and said it was their favourite comedy show they had been to this year - even up against some pro lineup shows. (2023)I did a SOAPBOX earlier this year and loved it. I'm relatively new to the comedy community but had full faith in Sachie and Trent to create a welcoming, safe, joyful atmosphere so I felt no nervousness in signing up and taking part. There were adorable pep talks beforehand and a policy of "text us when you get home" once we left. I was super exhausted on the day I performed, but I went home feeling warm and fuzzy. I'm a poet and comedian hybrid so sometimes feel nervous about trying poetry out in comedy settings and vice versa. Since SOAPBOX is designed to be multidisciplinary, it feels like the perfect event for me to take artistic risks within. (2022)
Semi Cho semi.cho108@gmail.com
I have been performing for Monfu since 2022. Their shows provide a positive environment for artists to express themselves authentically and work their craft. As an audience, anticipate warmth and variety. Their point of difference is their pastoral support for their performers. After every SOAPBOX show, Monfu follows up with each artist to confirm they left and got home safely. Any way to support Monfu for their upcoming shows would go a long way.Sayaka Kirkman kirkmant4@gmail.com
I had the great pleasure to be a part of the first SOAPBOX event hosted by Monfu at the Fringe Bar. I highly enjoyed being able to showcase my limited original repertoire in a non-judgmental environment and safe space (super important to me as a non-binary and queer performer), as well as have the freedom to showcase my acts of various niches. Trent and Sachie are magnetic and powerful artists and earlier this year a workshop they hosted for developing solo acts opened a door for me into the vibrant Wellington performing arts scene - which I may not have been able to/know how to enter myself had they not presented such an opportunity. I consider myself privileged to have been able to both glean some of their performance expertise as well as gain the chance to perform in their shows alongside immensely talented cast members, some of whom I made great connections with in later dates. Clarissa Chandrahasen clarissa.chandrahasen@gmail.com
I am writing this letter in support of MONFU Productions' grant application. I have been involved with shows produced by MONFU as a performer and I value the safe, supportive and inclusive environment that MONFU foster.MONFU's open mic Soapbox is also a great opportunity for women and non binary comedians to try out new material in a safe and supportive space, which I have performed at in the past year.I was later provided the opportunity to perform a well-paid longer set as part of Club Sandwich, something I have not received from other producers, where I was able to perform alongside two other women comedians.I highly endorse MONFU as grant recipients so they may continue to provide such valuable opportunities to women and non binary comedians.Leanne Jenkins leanne.jenkins.nz@gmail.com
Kia ora, my name is Leanne Jenkins. I am an aerial circus performer and had the opportunity to perform in two of Monfu's productions of SOAPBOX in August 2024 on aerial hammock.
I am relatively new to the performance scene and was so pleased to be part of SOAPBOX. It gave me a welcoming platform to develop my performance confidence and learn the ropes of being part of a cabaret production. Monfu (Sachie and Trent) were so kind, helpful and encouraging, making sure I knew what to expect and that I had everything I needed. The backstage vibe was really supportive, everyone appreciating each others art form and efforts. It was a real pleasure to work with Monfu and I came away feeling a real sense of achievement and success and like I could more confidently step up to further performance opportunities. Summer Begalka su.be.med18@gmail.com
Kia ora,My name is Summer Begalka and I am a local Wellington comic. I have performed in, as well ran ticketing, for several Monfu SOAPBOX shows over the past year and a half and every single one of them has been great fun and felt undeniably professional. Monfu focuses their effort on strengthening the female and non-binary presence in the arts and they are one of the strongest and most dedicated production companies in Wellington to do so. If not for Monfu and their regular shows, I would not have had as many opportunities to perform and develop my comedy. I credit these opportunities for my bigger successes, Fringe Festival shows, Wellington Comedy Awards nomination, and making it to the finals of the Wellington Raw Quest Comedy Competition. Monfu is integral to female and non-binary performers. Monfu is integral to the Wellington comedy scene.Ngā mihiKaty Borrows kathleenborrows@gmail.com
Kia ora, my name is Katy and I was fortunate to participate in the August SOAPBOX event, run by Monfu.
Monfu, the award-winning boutique production company based in Wellington, New Zealand, has made an indelible mark on the arts and culture scene with its unwavering commitment to nurturing emerging talent and fostering an inclusive, vibrant community. As a new stand-up comedian and a proud member of the LGBT community, I have personally experienced the extraordinary support and encouragement that Monfu offers to artists like myself.
Monfu’s dedication to producing critically acclaimed shows is matched only by their passion for creating spaces where diverse voices can be heard and celebrated. In a world where the arts often face challenges, Monfu stands out as a beacon of positivity and innovation. They go beyond mere production; they invest in the people behind the art, ensuring that each project not only succeeds but also resonates with authenticity and heart.
For me, as a new comedian trying to find my footing, Monfu’s support has been invaluable. They have provided me with opportunities to grow, connect with other artists, and share my voice with a wider audience. Their belief in the power of art to bring people together is evident in the inclusive, welcoming environment they cultivate.
Monfu is more than just a production company; they are a cornerstone of Wellington’s cultural landscape, and their contributions to the arts community are both profound and deeply appreciated.Jenice Jean Goveas jenicegoveas@gmail.com
Kia ora. As a new Immigrant from India, I was extremely doubtful about my ability to get up on stage and connect to the audience. I consider myself lucky to have found out about SOAPBOX with the Monfu team being one of the most supportive organisers. I got an opportunity to perform my first 8 mins stand-up comedy set in July 2024, with such an amazing and Mana enhancing team. They ensured that everyone felt safe and comfortable not just during the show but also confirmed our safe return back home. I'm truly amazed and grateful for the level of care and affection shown towards me, and most importantly for being impressively inclusive. I sincerely hope that they are able to continue the wonderful work they are doing in nurturing new talent and creating a safe and inclusive space for comedy. They have inspired me to contribute my bit to creating a better society through art. I wish Trent and Sachie the best