Willa O’Neill Cameron

Willa O’Neill Cameron is a dynamic creative force whose career spans theatre, film, television, music, and community arts. With a career rooted in the vibrant cultural landscape of Aotearoa, New Zealand, she has made her mark as a producer, director, playwright, and performer. From her early television debut on The Billy T James Show to her recent projects curating and producing music showcases and exhibitions, Willa’s work has consistently blended artistic expression with community engagement.

Starting as a core cast member on The Billy T James Show at age 17, Willa rapidly built a versatile career, earning numerous accolades, including New Zealand Film and TV Awards for both Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress. Her talent has been showcased in iconic New Zealand films such as Scarfies, Topless Women Talk About Their Lives, and The Price of Milk. Alongside her film and television work, Willa co-founded Auckland’s Basement Theatre in the 1990s, establishing a pivotal space for fringe theatre and emerging artists. She later managed BEOP Studios, continuing her commitment to creative community spaces.

Willa’s theatre and community work extends to her role as a playwright and director, creating and directing productions for Concertina Productions, The Heart Collective, and X-Cat Productions. As a passionate advocate for the arts, Willa’s recent projects include producing the Mahuta, Music for Matariki showcase, collaborating with Ngāti Whātua, and curating The Art of the Record, a touring exhibition celebrating album art for the 21st anniversary of NZ Music Month.

With a Postgraduate Diploma in Dance Studies and a diploma in Writing for Children, Willa’s diverse skill set and collaborative spirit have shaped her unique voice within New Zealand’s artistic community. Currently serving in an executive role with the New Zealand Music Commission, she remains dedicated to amplifying Aotearoa’s creative voices on national and international levels.