Jason Manumua is an up and coming actor and all round production practitioner in film, theatre and television. He has been a tutor at West Auckland's Phoenix Performing Arts since its inception in 2007 and continues there as a mentor today.

He is currently involved in the development season of Elephant in the Garden of Gethsemane as wardrobe/props manager and featuring as an actor. Elephant in the Garden of Gethsemane has already played two nights at Q-Theatre in November and will play a last performance in this development series at Corban Estate Arts Centre on Friday December 13th at 730pm. Bookings can be made at www.ceac.org.nz.

Jason tells us a little about himself and what it's been like working on Elephant in this quick Q & A.

Q1 You've had quite a bit of experience as part of the Phoenix crew. Can you tell us a little about your background and what your involvement with Phoenix has been?

Back in 2007, I was part of the original group of mentors and young people that supported Jay Junior Williams when he was looking to start Phoenix. Back then, and even now, it was the element of working with young people in performing arts to develop craft and build a sense of self confidence and worth that attracted me to be a part of it.

My background has been in Film & Television production; writing & directing, and recently in acting - however, in Phoenix, I play multiple roles from catering to driving, cleaner to director - whatever is needed really.

Q2 What made you want to get involved in this project?

This is Phoenix's first real production in the hub of mainstream theatre - the city. It was important to me to help out in any way to ensure it was a success. This would be the start of many more opportunities, so it was imperative to get it off the ground - AND because I was eager to perform, usually I am in the background :)

Q3 What has it been like working with the other members of the cast?

I have had the beauty of meeting some new people that have come into this project - they are artists that I have come to admire and respect because of their input and commitment to the creative process. Like all projects, you develop strong bonds and rapport with the cast that carry on even after the shows.

Along with being a cast member, I also do the costuming and props - this takes most of my time and energy, and with that 'hat' on - I get to see who is more prepared, who doesn't treat their costumes properly etc. Keeps things interesting hahaha.

Q4 The play touches on some interesting and emotional topics. How have you handled this?

The biggest thing for me during the devising process has been about identity; and the connection we have to our ancestors. It has refreshed my own ties to my own Tongan heritage; reminded me of who I am and where I come from, and having the ability to stand on those foundations securely.

Learning to have the courage to weather strong emotions that can easily put you off balance - and when you become dis-connected from your identity that's when you're in for a rough ride. Although we can all relate to the story, I do feel blessed that I am grounded enough in my own identity - and that I can then extend a hand out to help another that may not be 'connected'.

Q5 How do you think the audience will take it?

This piece is currently in an early stage of development, and will continue to evolve. I think people will grasp onto the imagery and join the dots in their own mind like one would looking at an abstract painting.

Q6 What about yourself, where to next?

Well, Phoenix is in a unique space at the moment where a lot of the members that began under our wings have now all grown up and will be moving into more responsibilities in the group – that's exciting; the mentees now becoming mentors. That means for old mentors like me hahaha - I will most likely delve into creative means like writing, directing and teaching more. I sense short-films on the near horizon :).

All I know is, it will still involve young people and performing arts.

* Phoenix will play a full first season of Elephant in the Garden of Gethsemane in early February. Keep an eye out for both the play and Jason Manumua on your horizon.