Ro Dalziel was born in Ōtautahi, Christchurch, New Zealand. Initially training in law and theatre, she left her first law firm after a year for a major role on the popular serial drama Shortland Street. Shortly after, she trained in London and went on to perform in Shakespearean roles and at the Edinburgh Fringe. She also performed stand-up comedy in England and Edinburgh.
Ro worked for Toi Aotearoa Creative New Zealand for over two years as the Senior Theatre Adviser. Ro was the Literary Manager at The Court Theatre — designing and implementing a programme of high-trust opportunities for playwrights to develop works for core and new audiences. As well as reading plays and providing dramaturgy, she organised commissions, workshops, rehearsed readings, and the inaugural national women’s hui on playwriting. Working with emerging and established theatremakers, Ro further deepened her appreciation for Aotearoa works.