For North Shore creatives Logan McAlister and Rose Stretton, theatre has always been more than a hobby – it's shaped their lives, careers, and their future. Channel Mag's Liz Cannon chats with them about the next big dream.
The dynamic young duo behind LNR Productions are rapidly becoming two of Auckland’s most exciting emerging theatre producers, but their story begins much closer to home. Logan grew up in Devonport and attended Takapuna Grammar School, where his love of the performing arts first took hold. From singing on the Shore to eventually earning an Honours degree in Classical Voice, his creative journey has been firmly rooted in the local community.
Rose’s story is equally connected to the North Shore. Raised in Albany and educated at Rangitoto College, she grew up immersed in the arts through her family’s performing arts business, Pform.nz. Founded by her parents Tracey and Michael Stretton, the company began in the Mairangi Bay Hall and has gone on to inspire thousands of young Aucklanders through performing arts education.
“We both owe so much to the North Shore arts community,” says Rose. “The opportunities, teachers and mentors we had growing up helped shape who we are today.”
The pair met while performing in the same production in 2025. Sharing a passion for theatre, along with a determination to create more opportunities for young performers, they quickly discovered a common vision. Rather than waiting for opportunities to appear, they decided to create them themselves. That vision led to the formation of LNR Productions.
In less than two years, the company has already built an impressive reputation. Their debut production, 'The Last Five Years', staged at Takapuna’s PumpHouse Theatre, earned critical acclaim and introduced Auckland audiences to their fresh, professional approach. They followed that success with 'The Lightning Thief' at the Rose Centre in Belmont, further strengthening their connection with North Shore venues and audiences. Now, the couple are taking their biggest step yet, presenting 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat' at Auckland’s Q Theatre. While the production represents a significant move onto a larger stage, their mission remains firmly tied to the values they developed on the Shore. Through LNR Productions, Logan and Rose are committed to supporting emerging artists, creating pathways for young performers and helping ensure theatre remains accessible for audiences and creatives alike. Their productions also champion community involvement, bringing together performers, educators and local arts organisations.
Logan, Rose and LNR Productions represent something worth celebrating: talented local creatives proving that big dreams can start in community halls, school auditoriums and local theatres. They remain proud products of the North Shore, carrying the background and spirit of local community wherever the theatrical spotlight shines next.
'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat' presented by LNR Productions is being staged at Auckland's Q Theatre from 26 September to 10 October. Tickets: iTICKET and Q Theatre
