THE ARTISANS BEHIND THE HOLLOW CAUSE:
CAST & CREW | MUSICIANS | CREATIVES
Keshet is a multi-faceted artist known for his dynamic presence in the arts industry as a performer, composer, lyricist, director, and producer. His creative journey has taken him from stagehand to spotlight, contributing to critically acclaimed shows and producing music that has reached audiences internationally. The mind behind "The Diments rock opera", Keshet has demonstrated his narrative and musical prowess, leading to the show's sold-out debut season. His latest endeavor, "The Hollow Cause," showcases his dedication to creating immersive experiences and his commitment to fostering understanding and action through cultural expression.
KESHET -
CREATOR, DIRECTOR & PRODUCER
Akari Komoto, a Brisbane-bred composer and performer based in Perth, has been immersed in music since beginning piano lessons at the tender age of four. Her talent has led her from performing in Musica Viva's prestigious events to participating in the 'Rising Stars' program at the Sydney International Piano Competition. Akari has recently transitioned into composing, debuting her work in musical theatre, and taking on the role of Assistant Musical Director with Laughing Horse Productions. She is currently enhancing her craft at WAAPA and is ambitiously working towards debuting her first full-length musical.
AKARI KOMOTO -
MUSIC DIRECTOR / CONDUCTOR
Matt Pountney is a seasoned Touring Technical Director, whose career evolved from being an audio engineer to orchestrating major live events like Disney in Concert. His journey in the entertainment industry began part-time while studying Law, growing from mixing sound for local shows to managing complex technical setups for large-scale productions. As the Technical Director for "Disney's A Dream is a Wish" and "Disney 100," Matt has mastered the art of delivering enchanting experiences with precision and flair. Beyond his professional endeavours, he mentors upcoming talents in live event production and enjoys sports in his leisure time.
MATTHEW POUNTNEY -
TECH MANAGER
Asha Cornelia Cluer is an innovative theatre director and creator of immersive events, with a rich background in corporate entertainment, commercial theatre, and independent cabaret. In her work with Black Swan State Theatre Company and the Emergent Academy, she excels as a performance workshop facilitator and teaching artist. Asha has co-facilitated for Ngalaka Daa and directed rehearsal for WAYTCo's ARCO: In Schools, alongside leading well-being research through the arts with Telethon Kids Institute. She combines her creative direction with educational roles, impacting the Western Australian arts scene profoundly.
ASHA CORNELIA CLUER -
IMMERSIVE DIRECTOR
Dean Gratwick is a skilled lighting designer with a history of high-profile roles in the entertainment industry. His career includes key positions such as Project Manager at Novatech Creative Event Technology in Adelaide and Production Manager at Concert & Corporate Productions in Perth. Dean's expertise extends to designing and constructing rigging, lighting, and video stage designs for diverse events, from rock concerts to electronic shows. Most recently, he contributed significantly by designing lighting for Voyager's Eurovision appearance, showcasing his ability to deliver visually stunning, technically sophisticated lighting solutions.
DEAN GRATWICK - LIGHT DESIGNER
Holly Sansalone, a graduate from WAAPA, specializes in Costume and Millinery, with a deep appreciation for costume history and the artistry of handcrafted pieces. With a professional background as a Couture Bridal Gown Designer, she launched Holly Barker Millinery in 2010, focusing on bespoke headpieces and hats. Her talents extend to costume design for stage, contributing to productions by The West Australian Opera, WA Ballet, Black Swan State Theatre Company, and Redfoot Youth Theatre. Holly's work not only enhances theatrical performances but also serves to inspire and nurture the next generation of performing artists in Perth.
HOLLY SANSALONE -
COSTUME DESIGNER
Adina Rabbone, a Melbourne native, honed her craft in Musical Theatre at WAAPA and has since illuminated stages in Perth and Melbourne with her dynamic performances. Her range of characters includes notable roles such as the Wicked Witch in "The Wiz," Tzeitl in "Fiddler on the Roof," and Paulette Bonafonte in "Legally Blonde" at the Crown Theatre. Behind the scenes, Adina applies her expertise in Partnerships and Communications to projects like "The Hollow Cause," which holds personal significance as she is the granddaughter of Auschwitz Birkenau survivors. As a mother of three, she is committed to ensuring the stories of the Holocaust are preserved and continue to educate future generations.
ADINA RABBONE -
Battleground Banquet Boss
Ron Arthurs is a seasoned actor with a vast array of performances in theatre, independent films, television, and voice work. With a strong presence in musicals and plays, he has taken on roles ranging from Colonel Bryant in "Seven Little Australians" to Judge Taylor in "To Kill a Mockingbird," showcasing his versatility. His recent work includes leading roles in independent feature films and a multitude of characters in short films, demonstrating a breadth of character portrayal. Complementing his on-screen endeavors, Ron engages in role play for immersive experiences and lends his voice to various voice-over projects, reflecting his comprehensive skill set in the performing arts.
RON ARTHURS - PARTISAN GUIDE
Caleb Macauley is a dedicated actor with a diverse range of experiences in film, television, and theatre. His journey in acting includes roles in short films like "In The Loop" and "Armoire," and features like "How to Please a Woman." He has showcased his talent in improvisational comedy with multiple appearances in "Tod Talks." Caleb also appeared in the ABC series "The Heights" and participated in interactive theatre productions such as "Pirates! Live." Trained at WAAPA, he possesses skills in stage combat, screen acting, and Shakespearean drama, along with conversational French and piano proficiency.
CALEB MACAULEY - PARTISAN GUIDE
Naomi Raven, currently serving as the Head Set Designer and Workshop Supervisor for The Hollow Cause, is a WAAPA-trained professional specializing in set and costume design. Her education at WAAPA provided her with opportunities to collaborate with both local and national directors, enhancing her expertise in the field. Naomi's diverse experience includes working on projects for Fringe World Perth, creating mural paintings at music festivals, and contributing to the innovative blending of new and classic scripts in various plays and musicals. Her talent and versatility make her a valuable asset to the theatrical and artistic community.
NAOMI RAVEN - SET DESIGNER
Para Isidro, a renowned dance artist and choreographer from Manila, Philippines, is the Director of PARADANCE in Perth, Western Australia, where she offers comprehensive dance training. Her diverse dance expertise ranges from ballet to hip-hop, and she has been a principal dancer for Powerdance in the Philippines and choreographed for productions like "Miss Saigon" and "Rent." In addition to her performance achievements, Para has held roles as a dance and movement director and lecturer at prestigious institutions in Perth. She is also a dedicated mother, a fitness enthusiast, and the creator of the Club Fiesta dance class.
PARA ISIDRO - CHOREOGRAPHER
Ivy Halford, an actor with a vocal range of Alto/Mezzo-Soprano (D3-C6), has been passionate about performing arts since winning first place at a regional arts festival at the age of 10. Throughout high school, she engaged in various singing groups and school musicals. Ivy's involvement with UWA's Pantomime Society, local and interstate theatre companies, and her participation in Yirra Yaakin's Ngalaka Daa and WAYTCo's productions, including "BESIDE" at the Perth Festival, highlight her versatile acting skills. Despite a non-traditional academic background in arts, Ivy's practical experience has continually honed her abilities, making her a dynamic presence in both theatre and film.
IVY HALFORD - PARTISAN GUIDE
Jesse Vakatini is a passionate actor involved in both theatre and screen, with a deep interest in creative roles and collaborative practice. Serving as the Secretary of the Youth Advisory Committee at WA Youth Theatre Company, Jesse has also acted in notable productions like the Perth Festival's "Body Of Knowledge" and "Beside." His experience extends to assistant directing and performing in various projects with institutions like North Metropolitan TAFE. Jesse's skill set includes theatre acting, screen acting, script writing, and directing, illustrating his multifaceted talent in the arts industry.
JESSE VAKATINI - PARTISAN GUIDE
Tory Kendrick, a dynamic performer from Perth, completed an advanced diploma of performing arts in 2020 and has since been a prominent figure in the theatre scene. She has starred in numerous mainstage productions, including "We Will Rock You," "The Boy From Oz," and "Legally Blonde," showcasing her versatile acting skills. Tory is also well-versed in the corporate performance sphere, collaborating with companies like Lyons Production and Glass Slipper Entertainment. Her latest project is a self-produced, original cabaret titled "Somebody to Love," which she is currently touring across Australia, including cities like Perth, Adelaide, and Melbourne.
TORY KENDRICK - PARTISAN GUIDE
Nikki is a seasoned performer and musician with over 40 years of experience in stage, film, and voice work. She currently performs with the Klezmer band Red Sea Pedestrians and the cabaret comedy band Jones of Ark. Nikki's notable work includes her performance art pieces "Ush and Them" for the Proximity Festival in 2012 and "Meditation on the Breath" in 2013. As part of the electronica duo Late Night Shopping, she composed music for "I Know You’re There" at PIAF 2016 and various WA Youth Theatre Company productions, and also performed in "Music for Emily" for Artrage 2016. Her extensive career includes voiceover work for ABC Radio National and acting in Ben Elton’s film "Three Summers" in 2017.
NIKKI JONES- PARTISAN GUIDE
THE HOLLOW CAUSE would like to thank our associate producers
Originally from Montreal, Canada, Genevieve's Arts and Communications background led her to roles at Cirque du Soleil, as a Just for Laughs Festival producer, and Solotech's Director of Operations. Since 2017 in Australia, she's delivered numerous events and launched venues, showcasing her expertise in managing complex projects. Genevieve enjoys music, yoga, speaking French, and mentoring for Headspace. Her positive attitude and ability to remain calm under pressure make her invaluable for ambitious projects.
GENEVIEVE DESLANDES -
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER
Alana, originally from the US and now a proud Australian citizen, has been a versatile force in production since 1991. Her career highlights include touring globally as a Production Manager with Cirque du Soleil's show "KOOZA" across North America, Japan, the UK, and Europe starting in 2009. Settling in Melbourne, Australia, she established herself as an expert in tour planning and permitting for shows in temporary structures. Alana's expertise ensures compliance and strong relationships with site/venue owners and authorities. Apart from her professional accomplishments, Alana is an avid cat lover, always ready to appreciate pictures of your pets.
ALANA MORGAN -
ASSOCIATE PRODUCER