Bringing the Stage and Community Together
Voices of Volunteer Leadership
For Mags Delaney-Moffatt, Community Engagement Co-ordinator at The PumpHouse Theatre in Takapuna, no two days are ever the same. From giving talks to Probus groups and Friendship Groups, to planning drama sessions for seniors and teenagers, applying for funding, editing the 50th anniversary booklet, giving backstage tours, and looking after the theatre’s small but dedicated team of volunteers, her work is a dynamic blend of creativity, organisation, and community connection.
“I’m here to make things happen and to support our volunteers. They bring so much energy, skill, and heart to everything we do. Without them, I simply wouldn’t get through half the things I do.”
Mags’ journey with The PumpHouse began in 2010 as a volunteer props person for a Shakespeare in the Park production of Richard III. That experience led her to stage manage and direct further productions, all voluntary, and planted the seeds for a deeper connection to the theatre. “It was a hobby that brought me to The PumpHouse — which eventually became my job,” she says.
When she stepped into her current role in 2018, one of her first tasks was researching the theatre’s history. She discovered that the building had been saved from demolition and restored by volunteers from the local community. “That was so inspiring. Walking in the footsteps of local heroes gives real meaning to the work we do today.”
For Mags, what she enjoys most about working with volunteers is the opportunity to meet a wide variety of people from different ages, abilities, and cultures. “I probably wouldn’t meet these people in any other role,” she says.
Volunteers bring their unique talents and perspectives — from Brendon, who helps with technical theatre tasks, to Ross, who photographs events, to Susan, her right-hand person for this year’s Creative Talks. Their contributions allow The PumpHouse to operate smoothly and expand its offerings.
Mags also sees volunteering as a powerful way for people to grow in confidence. “Volunteering is often the first step on a journey that might even lead to paid roles. It’s rewarding to see someone take on responsibility in a safe space and succeed.”
“Everyone has something to offer.”
Her own experience as a volunteer outside of the theatre reinforces this belief. Mags has worked as a stage manager and director for the Foolish Wit Theatre Company and volunteered for the Citizens Advice Bureau in Glenfield. During COVID lockdowns, she manned a telephone helpline, providing much-needed support while giving herself a sense of purpose. “Volunteering gives people a place to start — especially those who may face extra challenges, like adapting to a new culture or learning a language,” she reflects.
Leading volunteers is not without its challenges. Mags notes the disappointment when prospective volunteers never follow through, or when short-term projects struggle to attract participants. Yet, she has learned to accept that these experiences are part of the process.
“It’s a matter of finding the right fit and being realistic about what people can commit to.”
Looking ahead, Mags believes the perception of volunteering needs to evolve. “The idea that once someone volunteers, they’re with you for life, is outdated,” she says. She hopes to inspire her board and peers to embrace modern approaches and recognize volunteers as essential contributors who bring up-to-date skills and fresh thinking to their organisations.
Reflecting on her work, Mags sums it up simply: “I do what I do to make a difference to others’ wellbeing and my own — (and because I’m a bit crazy!)”
With her passion, humour, and commitment, Mags continues to foster a thriving volunteer community, ensuring that The PumpHouse Theatre remains a place where creativity, connection, and community come alive.
