In October 2023, Creative Island convened a meeting at the Apollo Theatre in Newport with many of the Island’s theatre companies to start a conversation about their work and ambitions.
What emerged was this idea of an Island theatre community which might allow for greater collaboration, sharing of knowledge, skills development, and mutual support. We began to identify common observations; that audiences will travel from all parts of the Island; that there is limited access to rehearsal space; skills gaps around touring models; connections to mainland venues.
The underlying thread of the conversation was around how to develop sustainable careers as professional theatre makers. As part of this work Creative Island has negotiated a hub membership for the Island with the Independent Theatre Council – the arts management network for over 400 companies across the UK – so that every Island-based theatre company joining our delivery project, the IW Creative Network, can benefit from their expertise.
Join the conversation
Our next meeting will be held on 23rd January 2024, with the Theatre Officer for Arts Council England joining to both listen and update companies on current developments and a workshop with Touring Associate for HOUSE, Mark Makin.
If you are interested in joining the conversation, please get in touch with Georgia at georgia@creativeisland.org
