Clairevan Beek

Christchurch native Claire van Beek began acting at a young age, charging her parents 20 cents admission for shows in their home. After studying at Hagley Theatre Company and drama school Toi Whakaari, she began working predominantly in theatre, before moving into film. Daniel, her debut short as director, is an award-winning take on the craving for touch in a sexually repressed world. The film reflects her main objective: to make female-centric work that focuses on female sexuality and rage. Van Beek has also worked behind the scenes as an acting coach and director's assistant — including on Jane Campion's The Power of the Dog.