Sunday, 24 May 2020
"We have government working groups whose membership is dominated by big cultural venues and institutions. This feels like the equivalent of oil companies dominating a task force to sort out our response to climate change". More voices from more communities should be heard, says David Jubb.
Thursday, 21 May 2020
Fulfilling the aspirations of those who were satisfied with what normal was would mean reopening cultural institutions that absorb most of the resources and status, but reach perhaps 10% of the population. That's not on the menu, says François Matarasso.
Sunday, 17 May 2020
With income forecast to be 74% lower than last year, Fuel Theatre shares the detail of what they're pledging to themselves, and what they're pledging to audiences, artists and the wider community as the Covid crisis unfolds.
Teachers will be helping the 'coronavirus class of 2020' when they get back to school, and arts organisations should be working on their relationships with schools too, building bridges with them now, before it’s too late, says Sally Bacon.
Beyond simply creating art for art’s sake, or for school credits, young people are building social movements and creative projects around a different vision for our planet. And they are calling us in, says Kathleen Gallagher.
Should 'audience development' be an outcome in and of itself? Stephen Pritchard reflects on arts work that goes deeper, supporting people to begin the process of rebuilding their communities.
Government and public reactions to the lockdown were confirmation for Samantha Bowen of the inequality facing disabled people - something she had long feared, but persuaded herself was paranoia.
Sunday, 10 May 2020
The success of the work that emerges after the pandemic will rely on our ability to value art that satisfies human needs within a community context, rather than market relevance, says Deborah Fisher.
The ritualistic aspects of attending classical music - perceived as elitist and damaging to the industry - are broken down by live-streaming, says Chris Lian-Lloyd. When you're in your own living space, no one will hiss at you for applauding.
‘What do I get?’ may motivate a person to become a member of an arts organisation, but motivations can change over time. Martin Barden says it's time for a more strategic approach to membership schemes.
Not all dance companies will make it through to the other end of this crisis. But dance artists are a resilient bunch. Many have been through closure and seen a future emerge after. Jennifer Stahl spoke to some people who've been through the experience.
Deaf and hearing families are becoming "frustrated at the lack of content amidst what is seemingly a hive of creative activity." Handprint Theatre offers advice on making online theatre accessible to all.
Wednesday, 06 May 2020
What’s the point of rehearsals if you don't know when or whether you're going to be reopening? Alex Marshall reports on artistic directors' reactions to the concept of theatre-making under social distancing restrictions.
Sunday, 03 May 2020
Organisations that use scenario planning to prepare for an uncertain future are better equipped and more nimble when new opportunities or major challenges arise. Adrian Ellis explains what's involved.
If audience members who feel ill will self-isolate, a consequence of this challenging period could be a safer, quieter and more enjoyable theatre experience for all, says Lawrence Perelman.
If some of your income comes from gift shops, retail or online sales, can you keep your operations running while social distancing measures are in place? Natasha Troitino examines the challenges.
The arts don’t trump all other values and obligations, says theatre critic Charles McNulty. There’s a category for artists who believe their creativity should be prioritised in all weather: narcissist.
The legal profession is rethinking how it hears arguments and holds trials. The medical industry is rethinking tele-medicine and how it charges for services. The existential question for the arts is whether we continue with our under-performing non-profit model or design something new, says Douglas McLennan.
Tuesday, 28 April 2020
It will be a long road before large gatherings start to return in the performing arts and elsewhere — perhaps years, says Andrew Taylor. And when they do, any 'season' planning will be more modular and loosely coupled than any we could have imagined even two months ago.
Sunday, 26 April 2020
This is a vulnerable moment for theatre, says Barney Norris, but it's also a once in a generation opportunity to provide a traumatised nation with exactly what we need.