Debate: Participatory Theatre: The Saviour of Regional Theatre?

About

With yet another British Theatre funding crisis, the future of regional theatre remains uncertain. Reports of English arts funding of £69 per head in London and £4.60 elsewhere illustrate the problem.

Nonetheless, some forms of Participatory Theatre appear to be thriving. These include Theatre in Education, Young People’s Theatre, Forum Theatre and Theatre for Development; performance-focussed work and process‐based activity aimed at personal, group and / or social development. This is happening in diverse areas such as work, political, social and community settings, and practitioners may be professional theatre performers and directors, facilitators in social work and education.

Many regional theatres have a longstanding and precious relationship with their communities. Could a dynamic and participating community be the life blood that regional theatre seeks? Will theatre ensure that community participation is central to artistic endeavour? And how does it affect theatres’ relationships with funding bodies, communities, education and art?

Panel members:

» Fiona Buffini, Associate Director, Nottingham Playhouse
» Giles Croft (Chair), Artistic Director, Nottingham Playhouse
» Adrian Jackson, founder and Artistic Director of Cardboard Citizens Artistic Director
» Richard Willacy, Associate Artistic Director and Executive Director of Birmingham Opera Company

This debate is hosted by Nottingham Playhouse in partnership with Nottingham Trent University.

Any Questions?
If you have any questions about this event please email 170years@ntu.ac.uk or telephone +44 (0)115 848 8268.