Introducing our 2026 Theatre Team

	Life Education Trust’s theatre team will hit the road in Term 2, bringing thought-provoking performances and workshops to secondary schools across the motu. From performing stand-up, to writing, directing and touring Italy, this year’s team have diverse theatre experience and are hugely talented.
From left: Lydia O'Callaghan, Kaisa Fa'atui and Lauren Heaysman

Lydia O’Callaghan (24) was born and raised in Otautahi Christchurch. After catching the theatre bug ‘properly’ at Otago University, she has written plays and dabbled in stand up along with acting. She enjoys bike riding and running in her spare time and is currently training for a marathon.

“I'm really looking forward to the touring experience and forming connections with young people in schools. I also hope I can introduce my fellow team members to Parkrun as a Saturday morning ritual!”

Kaisa Fa'atui (26) is from Taita, Lower Hutt and went on to train at Toi Whakaari in Wellington. After a couple of years working as an independent artist, he got his Master of Fine Arts in Theatre from Victoria University and has worked with indigenous companies Le Moana, The Conch, Taki Rua, Tawata and Te Pou Theatre. Kaisa is part of a collective of multi-disciplinary artists called 'The Gentle Boys' and also writes and directs. Outside of acting, he has held youth facilitation roles for Hutt City Council and Mīharo Murihiku.

“I fell in love with theatre cos I could make people laugh with it, and all my training simply deepened my appreciation for it, as well as expanded the range of feeling I could convey with performance. I'm a nerd in my spare time - if I'm not playing video games, I'm probably reading a book, tinkering with software or watching something silly on YouTube. I also like going for a solid walk, eating good food and admiring animals of various kinds. This mahi is a sound challenge but I'm super stoked to make this tour something special for everyone we perform for.”

Lauren Heaysman (25) is originally from New Plymouth, although her family have recently moved to Queenstown. Lauren trained at the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art (NASDA) in Christchurch and after graduating with a Bachelor of Performing Arts worked as a Jester and actor with The Court Theatre. She has previously performed in primary schools in New Zealand, with New Zealand Playhouse, and Italy, with Educo Italia, a company that teaches English to students through theatre.

Lauren says acting and directing in Italy has allowed her to combine her love of performance with travelling and meet like-minded people from all over the world.

“There’s nothing quite like finishing a day of shows and workshops with a drink overlooking the Colosseum. And that was just a Tuesday! One of the things that draws me to touring roles is the endless opportunity to explore new places and discover hidden gems. I love working in a small team environment, and I can’t wait to educate and inspire rangatahi across Aotearoa.”