William Guest, Wellington, MNZM
For services to the performing arts. Mr Guest was Head of Entertainment Technology and Performing Arts Management at Toi Whakaari from 1994 to 2008, and Associate Director from 2005. He revolutionised the training for backstage performing arts practitioners in New Zealand. Before technical training was established in 1994 there were no formal training opportunities for lighting, set design or stage management. Under Mr Guest’s leadership the various technical and design courses have since earned the respect of the entertainment industry through the professionalism, excellent safety standards and strong ability of graduates. He led the delivery and establishment of the Diploma in Entertainment Technology and the Bachelor of Performing Arts Management at Toi Whakaari and, in partnership with Massey University, founded the Bachelor of Performance Design. Mr Guest recently wrote a History of Toi Whakaari to celebrate its 40th anniversary.