Cass Avery - EVP of Development & Production

For the past 25+ years, Cass has worked as an Executive Producer, producer and writer for both factual and scripted  films and programmes commissioned in New Zealand, Australia and the US. She joined Communicado’s documentary unit in 1995 and was part of the boom of documentary commissioning in New Zealand. She has helmed more than 40 documentaries as well as producing series across a range of genre from political satire, to children’s television and comedy drama. A qualified journalist Cass has also worked in print and radio as well as a period as a University Lecturer teaching New Zealand literature. Cass is currently the EVP of  Development and Production at Dark Doris, a position she has held since 2012.

​

Michelle Walshe - Co-Founder and Director

Michelle Walshe is an accomplished director who began her career in prime-time television before moving to documentary filmmaking to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences. She co-founded  Dark Doris Entertainment, known for projects like Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles - where she served as Executive Producer - and Girl on the Bridge, a powerful exploration of the mental health crisis. In 2016, Walshe directed Chasing Great, New Zealand’s highest-grossing documentary of all time, breaking box office records and earning critical acclaim. She also directed the scripted comedy series Short Poppies with Rhys Darby, showcasing her versatility in storytelling. A passionate advocate for female empowerment, Walshe creates films that inspire positive impact for both people and the planet. She was nominated for Best Documentary Director at the New Zealand Film Awards and remains dedicated to creating and enabling meaningful films and projects that drive social change.

​

Leon Kirkbeck - Co-Founder and Producer, Shooter & Editor 

Leon Kirkbeck is a producer and cinematographer, known for his dual-role contributions to God Defend New Zealand, Chasing Great, and Prime Minister. As Co-Founder of Dark Doris, he blends expertise, vision, and trust to gain unprecedented access to create compelling international stories, including an upcoming documentary on the Brooklyn Nets.