Jamie McCaskill Brings Subversive Comedy to Wellington’s Stage

Performing artist Jamie McCaskill is set to showcase his unique blend of subversive politics and humor at the Circa Theatre in Wellington from October 28 to November 1. Known for his engaging performances and insightful commentary, McCaskill has become a prominent figure in New Zealand’s arts scene.

Living in Lyall Bay, Wellington, with his wife, fellow artist Kali Kopae, and their daughter Willow, age 11, McCaskill balances a busy schedule that includes acting, writing, and various entrepreneurial ventures. He co-founded the clothing brand Surf Māori and runs a fish-tank cleaning business called Ika Mā. Additionally, he dedicates his time to the Hauraki Women’s Refuge, advocating for women facing violence through the power of art.

Reflecting on his journey, McCaskill shared, “I’m from Thames and after school I worked on fishing boats. Inspired by my father, who was a great singer, I enrolled at UCOL in Palmerston North for a two-year theatre diploma.” His passion for theatre ignited during his time touring New Zealand with the Duffy Books in Homes programme, where he wrote his first play, What’s Up Bro?

Building a Voice Through the Māori Sidesteps

In 2016, McCaskill and a group of four others formed The Māori Sidesteps, a performing group that offers political commentary through a Māori lens. He describes their work as a “subversive mouthpiece,” drawing inspiration from the legendary Māori showbands of the 60s and 70s. Their performances include a mix of humorous skits and songs that challenge societal norms while entertaining audiences.

The challenges of being a performing artist are not lost on the couple. “It’s not easy keeping your head above water when you’re both in the arts sector,” McCaskill explained. In one particularly challenging period, the couple had to rely on a lamb he received as payment for a job to get by. Their commitment to their craft has taken them through various rentals across Wellington, and they eventually settled in their current home 14 months ago.

A Home by the Ocean

The couple desired to live near the ocean, which plays a significant role in their lives. McCaskill reminisced about surfing in the Coromandel during his youth, a passion he rekindled in his late 30s. He now surfs regularly with a group known locally as the Churtans, a crew of Māori surfers from around the city. “The ocean is our element and keeps us sane,” he noted.

Their current rental features ample storage, allowing McCaskill to store his surfboards and wetsuits, while Kali has a dedicated space for her cycling equipment. “We’ve also got a lovely backyard barbecue area and our bedroom has amazing sea views,” he added, highlighting their appreciation for their surroundings.

Despite the challenges of securing a mortgage as performers, the couple remains hopeful about purchasing a home. “As performers, our work ebbs and flows, so it’s a challenge saving money for a deposit,” McCaskill stated. Their dream is to find a home that offers a mix of beach and bush, ideally located on Wellington’s south coast.

As McCaskill prepares for the upcoming performances of The Māori Sidesteps, he reflects on the importance of their work. “We’re here to entertain, but we also want to make a statement,” he emphasized. The group’s performances promise to be a dynamic blend of laughter and thought-provoking dialogue, appealing to a wide audience eager for both entertainment and insight.