Jamie McCaskill Merges Art and Activism in New Stage Show

Jamie McCaskill, a multifaceted performer from Thames, is set to bring his captivating blend of subversive politics and humor to the stage with his latest project. Known for his work with the ensemble Māori Sidesteps, McCaskill’s performances are characterized by insightful political commentary delivered through a Māori lens. He will showcase his talents at Wellington’s Circa Theatre from October 28 to November 1.

Living in Lyall Bay, Wellington, the 46-year-old artist balances an array of responsibilities beyond the stage. In addition to acting and writing, McCaskill runs a clothing brand, Surf Māori, and operates a fish-tank cleaning business, Ika Mā. He also contributes to the community through his work with the Hauraki Women’s Refuge, advocating against violence towards women.

McCaskill’s journey into the performing arts began after high school, inspired by his father, a talented singer. He pursued a two-year theatre diploma at UCOL in Palmerston North. After graduating, he fell in love with theatre and began touring with the Duffy Books in Homes programme, where he wrote his first play, What’s Up Bro?

In 2016, McCaskill and four fellow performers founded the Māori Sidesteps, a group dedicated to creating entertaining yet politically charged performances. Drawing inspiration from the Māori showbands of the 1960s and 70s, their work features a mix of humor and cultural commentary through skits and songs.

Reflecting on his life, McCaskill shared, “We’ve rented all over Wellington but it’s not easy keeping your head above water when you’re both in the arts sector.” He recounted a time when their only food source was some lamb he received as payment for a performance. Despite the challenges, McCaskill and his wife, fellow performer Kali Kopae, have built a loving home for their family, which includes their daughter Willow, aged 11, and McCaskill’s 26-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.

The couple moved back to Thames for two years, where McCaskill wrote plays and worked in a fish and chip shop. During this time, he also began collaborating with the Hauraki Women’s Refuge, using his artistic talents to advocate for social change. Returning to Wellington, they settled in a family-friendly rental in Kilbirnie for six years before relocating to their current home, which they found 14 months ago.

“Our house has a lot of storage, which sold us on it,” McCaskill noted. The couple enjoys their proximity to the ocean, a significant part of their lives. “The ocean is our element and keeps us sane,” he added. McCaskill, who took up surfing again in his late 30s, is part of a group called the Churtans, a collective of Māori surfers from across Wellington.

In addition to surfing, they engage in fishing and diving, enjoying the local marine life. Their home features a barbecue area and stunning sea views, and they have adorned the walls with artwork from McCaskill’s father, Andy Mac, an established artist.

While the couple dreams of home ownership, the fluctuating nature of their work in the arts complicates savings for a deposit. “That’s why we have so many side hustles going,” McCaskill explained. Their aspirations include a future that blends both beach and bush living, ideally somewhere on Wellington’s south coast.

As McCaskill prepares for his upcoming performances with the Māori Sidesteps, the community eagerly anticipates the combination of humor and poignant commentary that has become a hallmark of his work.