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James Mustapic
James Mustapic
Comedy | TV (Repressed Memories TVNZ) | Celebrity Treasure Island 2023
Kia ora! Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m James Mustapic, and I graduated from John McGlashan in 2013. I moved to Auckland in 2015, and I majored in Media/Film, as well as Sociology at the University of Auckland. I’ve been working as a stand-up comedian for around 7 years now and won Best Newcomer at the NZ International Comedy Festival in 2018. I also was a Billy T Nominee in both 2019, and 2021. I also created multiple web series’ for The Spinoff.co.nz, including Shorty Street Scandal, and Repressed Memories. I now work as a creative producer on Seven Sharp for TVNZ, and this year I created a TV show for TVNZ OnDemand called Abandonment Issues, which was all about revisiting NZ pop culture from the early 2000s.
Why are the arts important?
The arts are important because they provide so much joy in my life, and so many others' lives! I was never a high achiever in many subjects like Maths and Science when I was at school, and I always enjoyed being creative. So I’m super happy (and lucky) that I get to work doing what I love and not in a boring office job!
Advice for other aspiring arts students?
I would say just keep going! Sometimes it's hard when you’re starting out, and you're probably not going to be earning heaps of money right away! But if you're passionate about it, definitely keep working on it! There will always be hurdles in life but with some hard work and dedication you can make it! You’re never going to regret pursuing your dreams and going for something you’re passionate about!
Hall of Fame
Hall of Fame
Tama Anthony-Whigham
Tama Anthony-Whigham
Comedy | Musical Theatre
Kia ora! Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m Tama Anthony-Whigham and I graduated from McGlashan in 2021, having started there as a year 7. Over the last few years I’ve focused my attention on performing in and around Dunedin in both amateur and professional settings. Having performed from a young age it feels almost second nature and is just part of who I am. Most recently I’ve angled myself towards stand-up comedy and have found a lot of success in that area, receiving the ‘Best Newcomer’ award at the Dunedin Comedy Awards 2021, while also being nominated for Best Overall Comedian. Outside of shows and theatre, I’m currently a first year at Otago University studying computer science and music.
Why are the arts important?
The arts are important to me as they’re a personal and effective way to express ones self. Performance can work as an outlet for any problems or frustrations going on in your life. Not only is it an easy way to deal with difficult times or just to express yourself... but it’s also much more fun than academic study…
Advice for other aspiring arts students?
If you’re passionate about it or interested, go for it. The only way to get there is to give it a go. Inevitably there will be some setbacks, but without them you won’t improve. Regularly practice, record, or ask for help, it’ll feel tedious but you’ve got to do it. But most importantly you’ve got to stick with it and not get in your own head.
Tom Kelk
Tom Kelk
Musician
Kia ora! Tell us a bit about yourself:
My name is Tom Kelk, I play the bass guitar in the band, 'Mild Orange', I have been in the band since 2017. Since then, we have toured Europe, the US, Mexico and New Zealand. Prior to Mild Orange I played in the band 'Albion Place', which in fact started whilst we were in year 11 at McGlashan. Our first show was Rockquest 2011. I have recently moved to London with Mild Orange with the goal of broadening our European fanbase and perusing music full time.
Why are the arts important?
The arts are important to me as they are place to express myself creatively. Growing up through McGlashan I was involved in Musicals, Choir and Bands, I loved every moment of them. I wasn't until I left school and those things weren't offered to me that I realised I needed them. For me creativity is something that can't be sat on, it needs to be expressed. I believe it is important for everyone to express themselves creatively, no matter your ability.
Advice for other aspiring arts students?
Ahh yes the age old question... One that I'm still trying to figure out myself. I won't lie, the arts industry is not overly straight forward, there are many different paths to pursue, none that are either right or wrong. There is no textbook on how to do it, so you just have to live it and learn along the way. In saying that, it is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling industry to be a part of. I have had some of the most amazing experiences all over the world within this industry. Two things I have learnt thus far are:
Adaptability
It is important to be adaptable within the arts industry, firstly being adaptable in your art. Don't turn down offers because you think it's not quite your thing. I have played many different instruments in many different bands. You never know when one door will close and another will open, so it is important to go through that door whilst its still open! Secondly, be adaptable in how you make money. Unfortunately the arts industry won't always pay the bills and there may be big gaps between pay checks. It is important to look elsewhere for money whilst also keeping enough time for your craft. Since university I have worked in classrooms, offices and kitchens - all to help finance my career in the arts.
Enjoyment
For me this is the biggest one. If you aren't enjoying your art you need to take a step back and think why? Whatever the reason may be it is important to address. Enjoy your art first, if you can then make money from it, fantastic. But never stop enjoying your art!
Profiles coming soon...
Samuel Leaper (musician)
James Burchell (ballet dancer)
Gwyn Jones (design)
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