Applied Theatre Podcast (Tom Craig)

Applied Theatre Podcast - Episode 01 - Malcolm Jennings - The Playhouse.

I got the opportunity to speak with Malcolm regarding the skills required to create, manage and deliver Theatre in Education. We also discussed the trajectory of The Playhouse and the importance of drama/storytelling/creative learning in schools.

For more info:

https://www.theplayhouse.org.uk/

To support:

https://www.theplayhouse.org.uk/support-us

Applied Theatre Podcast.2020

youtube - Appliedtheatrepodcast

Instagram -AppliedTheatrepod

Twitter - Appliedtheatrepod

Ava & I caught up to discuss her Verbatim practice and MA in Applied Theatre at Derby University.

'Ava Hunt is a practitioner in theatre for young people and scholars at the University of Derby.

With a long career in acting in TV, film, and the corporate world, she also works as a director

and producer. She trained with Augusto Boal in Forum and Rainbow of Desire, worked with

Chris Johnston theatre in prison settings and with offenders, Dorothy Heathcote MBE in

Mantle of the Expert, and Dr Geoff Readman in-role practice.

Ava has published articles, is currently completing a PhD, and has toured internationally with

solo performance work including Acting Alone. She was Artistic Programmer for Hull Truck

and Associate Director for CAST, was co-founder of Tangere Arts with David Johnston, and

now runs her own production company focussing mainly on theatre with and for refugees.

She has worked internationally: Palestine, Sri Lanka, Russia, Czech Republic, Romania,

Australia, India, New Zealand, USA, Sweden, Norway, and Austria'.

Ava's Links:

- https://avahunt.co.uk/

Applied Theatre Podcast.2020

youtube - Appliedtheatrepodcast

Instagram -AppliedTheatrepod

Twitter - Appliedtheatrepod

Keiren & I interviewed Philip Morris about their experiences producing and facilitating ‘The Lightpost Comany’ during their time working for Birmingham Rep. We then spoke to Philip about his career to date and his journey from a graduate to now working for Young Vic.

Thank you to both Keiren and Philip.

The Lightpost Project. -

"The aim was simply to create a safe space where young Black men could feel acknowledged, listened to and celebrated. We had wished something like this had existed when we were younger so it only felt right to seize the opportunity and do so." - Philip Morris

"The joy of Black men couldn't always be seen through all the stigma and stereotypes, we wanted Lightpost to be a place for them to see it in each other and themselves" - Keiren Hamilton-Amos

Successfully receiving funding from MIND, at the end of the two years Philip felt that there was a real need for a young Black male theatre group. He wanted to run something that would continue beyond a limited time frame and create a group where the devised work reflected who they were. Above all, he wanted to form a brotherhood that could and would always support each other. 

After securing a permanent job as Youth Theatre Director at The REP, Philip (with support of his best friend Keiren Hamilton-Amos) began a theatre group of young Black men, creating theatre in a rehearsal room. 

Following the success of the 'Up My Street' pilot, the project partners successfully secured significant funding from the Lottery Community Fund for a 3 year programme called 'Shifting The Dial'. The project is a unique partnership between The REP, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, First Class Legacy and the Centre For Mental Health.

Shifting The Dial funding enabled Philip to develop his theatre group into Lightpost Theatre Company - an incredible training ground, but also a safe space to develop confidence and resilience. Performing in shows that actively challenge social stigmas, and ideas associated with young Black men, the group used theatre as a gateway to create new plays of social and historical context.  Lightpost remain a key element of the Shifting The Dial project.

The impact that Lightpost has had on The REP is immeasurable, performing work to national decision makers and commissioners in theatres and at conferences. Not only that, their alumni have gone onto many things, from becoming actors and writers to going to University or working in different sectors, but one thing remains, they have a brotherhood forever. 

Today, the group continues to evolve, but it started with 2 young Black men wanting to create theatre, make change and provide support and mentorship to young Black men in the West Midlands. 

With Philip's vision, Keiren's experience and their combined hard work, the Lightpost baton has been passed onto the next generation of Black male theatre makers (CJ Lloyd Webley & Mathias André), leading Lightpost into a new iteration. - Courtesy of Birmingham Rep. - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/news/in-the-spotlight-with-madeleine-kludje.html

To find out more about ‘The Lightpost Company’ please visit:

https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/get-involved/youth-theatre/

Applied Theatre Podcast.2020

youtube - Appliedtheatrepodcast

Instagram -AppliedTheatrepod

Twitter - Appliedtheatrepod

Episode 04 - Deborah Pakkar Hull (The Blahs)

I was joined by Deborah Pakkar-Hull, Artistic Director of Blah Blah Blah Theatre Company, Leeds. ( https://www.blahs.co.uk/ )

' Theatre Company Blah Blah Blah has 34 years’ experience creating high-quality participatory theatre with and for children and young people, their parents/carers and teachers. We work with multi-skilled artists and award-winning writers to explore stories that are complex, engaging and have contemporary relevance; performing in schools, theatres, community settings and museums.'

The Blahs company statement is 'Exploring Stories, not Just Telling Them!'. I was fortunate enough to speak with Deborah and unpick the companies process when creating work for Theatres, Schools and Communities. We discussed their most recent performance 'The Vultures' Song', which is available to watch here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2CbApty2xs . Deborah spoke about the need for Theatre Companies to develop regional and national partnerships, collaborating with schools, community organisations and establishing city-wide cultural partners. The Blahs plan to launch two new projects in 2021 'Stirring up The Past' and 'Gorilla Gardening' information about which can be found via their website https://www.blahs.co.uk/ .Thank you Deborah for your time.

Episode 05 - Holly Barradell (Open Drama UK)
Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Really enjoyed speaking with Holly Barradell, Co-Founder of Open Drama UK. ( opendramauk.org )

’We are Drama teachers, theatre practitioners and industry experts seeking an innovative way to engage with other like-minded individuals and organisations across the UK.

We are OPEN to all, across the UK for everyone working within the theatre industry or in Drama education. We’re free to join and our member-led networks across the UK bring people together to share practice and make change happen.

Our purpose is to advance, improve and benefit the lives of young people through their involvement in Drama both in schools and theatres.’ - www.opendramauk.org

Holly & I discussed the origins of Open Drama UK, the importance of supportive education networks and the power of building a community. Open Drama UK is incredibly responsive to the day to day lives of teachers. Open Drama UK supports teachers to share their experiences and gives them the opportunity to profile aspects of the profession others may need support with. Their YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJE8-7nNXLJWkeNe4EKQNpA/videos ) currently has over thirty-seven presentations delivered by Drama Teachers and theatre companies from all over the UK. The network is also accessibly completely free although they have a patreon scheme where some opt to support with a monthly donation (https://www.patreon.com/opendramauk) Open Drama UK utilises a network of ‘Champions’ they engage regionally and nationally and subscribers also recieve communicate via monthly mail-outs and their pro-active social media presence. They have recently started their own podcast which you can subscribe to here: https://open.spotify.com/show/4yeODR3O9rK6UchIvuvxOX?si=w5tmf6KuTGeq6KrgsR68bg

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod
Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Absolute pleasure to have interviewed Dr Chris Bolton, Senior Lecturer in Drama Education at Birmingham City University. Chris discussed:
- his doctorate research ‘Economies of Performance, Ecologies of Practice and Communities of Discovery: A collaborative approach to support Newly Qualified Teachers and their teacher identity (link to research below).

Loved speaking with Shereen, Director of Taking Part @ Young Vic Theatre, London. A conversation with Shereen had been recommended to me by a colleague, who described her as a powerhouse in the world of Applied Theatre’. She certainly lived up to her reputation, inspiring and amazing me with her passion for the incredible work she produces and the theatre she represents.

Over the course of the episode we discussed:

·        Her pathway into her current role at Young Vic

·        Experience of training at Royal Central School of Speech and Drama

·        How Theatres can become more collaborative and representative of their communities

·        ‘Taking Part’ @ Young Vic. How the theatre operates and what it offers for its young people and local community

·        The ‘TWENTY TWENTY’ Project @ Young Vic.

Thank you, Shereen for your time.

‘Shereen Jasmin Phillips graduated from Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in 2010 with a degree in Drama, Applied Theatre and Education. She has worked in the artistic and creative learning departments of a variety of London Theatre's working with community groups of all ages for over ten years. She was Project Manager for Kiln Theatre's 2016 Takeover festival, Barbican Centre's 2017 Dialogue Festival and Outreach Producer for Barbican Cinema. Shereen was previously Assistant Producer for National Theatre's Pericles as part of their Public Acts programme and is currently Director of Taking Part at Young Vic. Shereen is also a Trustee of Talawa Theatre Company, a reader at National Theatre & Soho Theatre’s Verity Bargate Award and a writer – her work was screened as part of Royal Court’s Windrush event in April 2019 and selected as part of Cardiff International Film Festival in 2020’.

Shereens Links:

Twitter

@ShereenJasmin

@YVTakingPart

Inspiring conversation with Jen Summer, Artistic Director of Hubbub Theatre Company. Jen’s practice alongside learning disabled actors/participants has cultivated a methodology known as ‘The Hubbub Way’. Jen explains that ‘the Hubbub way has become a language and a philosophy’. We discussed how the company devise and create performance exploring ‘the space in-between’. Approaches to co-creating with Learning Disabled Actors and the companies growth.

Over the course of the episode we discussed:

·       A brief overview of Hubbub as a company

·       Recruiting / Working with Learning Disabled Actors

·        The Hubbub Way!

·      Hubbub’s latest project ‘The Drum’ , which is being developed with Helen Baggett from Gecko Theatre.

Thank you, Jen for your time.

A conversation with Martha Godber, Founder of the Godber Theatre Foundation. The foundation aims to support Actors & Theatre creatives with their HE training. Whether supporting undergraduates with tuition, networking, or Actor essentials (headshots, spotlight), the foundation focuses intensely on championing future creatives from Hull and East Yorkshire.

Over the course of the conversation, we discussed:

How the Foundation was created.

Why the foundation is important for Hull and East Yorkshire.

Struggles Identified for young people aspiring to attend University/Drama School.

How does the Foundation work?

The Foundations aspirations.

Thank you, Martha for your time.

I got the opportunity to speak with the brilliant David Allen, Artistic Director of Midland Actors Theatre, ahead of their Dorothy Heathcote Now: International Conference. David, a true student of Dorothy’s practice shared with me all the information on the up and coming conference. Explaining ‘For some people think Dorothy Heathcote is part of the past. Part of the history of Drama in Education. But to me, she is absolutely now. She should and is informing modern practice and I think boy, do we need her now!’.
Book your ticket now!

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dorothy-heathcote-now-international-conference-tickets-128392987883

‘The worlds first interactive Theatre App!’ - Inside Theatre are the company behind the superb app ‘inside Theatre’. Speaking with Creative Director, Rebecca Gadsby, who explained to me how the app works, who the app is for and why this technology is so great! You can download the App now @ Apple and Google Stores.

I was joined by Philip, Chenube and Stefan to talk everything Trybe. ‘Trybe House Theatre is a newly formed company which seeks to actively build resilience and self-wellbeing, primarily with young black men aged 16- 25, using theatre as a supportive outlet’. Throughout the episode, I learned how Trybe formed, how they work and their approaches to delivering creative projects which are supported through medical, mental health practice. Trybe House Theatre is now an Associate Company at the Royal Court Theatre and I’m privileged to share with you their first-ever company interview.

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Incredible conversation with Dr Nicola Abraham, (Senior Lecturer, Applied Theatre Practices, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama) and Victoria Ruddock, (Dementia Specialist Healthcare Support Worker, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust) detailing their work on a range of Applied Theatre, film and VR projects in NHS hospitals. We discussed in detail how they have been developing new ‘person-centred’ approaches to creating bespoke artefacts, including VR 360 videos, intergenerational augmented reality-based process dramas with primary school children and older adult patients living with dementia.

A huge thank you to Nicola and Victoria for sharing their inspirational and innovative practice.

Nicky’s Links:

Twitter -

@DrNickA
@Vic2ria2285   
@CSSDlondon

Website - https://www.cssd.ac.uk/staff-profiles/dr-nicola-abraham

Applied Theatre Podcast:
Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Peckham Fringe Festival @ Peckham Theatre from 2nd May - 5th June

https://www.theatrepeckham.co.uk/theatre-peckham-presents-peckham-fringe/

Theatre Peckham is an award-winning cultural venue for artistic excellence and social change. Through the power of theatre, we illuminate young voices, provide skills and opportunities, and platform excellent creatives locally focused with a national and international reach.

Phillippe curates the Peckham Fringe and Young, Gifted; Black season programmes and oversees the programming of the Undercroft space and the Young Peckham programmes. Phillippe is also a singer-songwriter/composer, currently writing a musical, and freelances as a facilitator, dramaturg and producer on new writing projects. Phillippe is a theatre producer, dramaturg, composer and singer-songwriter from London. He is interested in creating and developing new work that explores socially relevant and representative stories, with a focus on global majority and queer voices.

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Inspiring conversation with Applied Theatre Researcher, Georgia Bowers. Her passion for Applied practice with older adults has contributed to her research ‘Applied Theatre and Older Adults: The Impact of Theatrical Engagement with Adults aged 65+’. Georgia’s research further evidences how transformational Applied Practice can be and how it is the duty of theatres, funders and practitioners to provide it. Thank you, Georgia for your time.

‘It is emerging that Applied Theatre with adults over 65 years can function as an intervention towards addressing shame and developing high levels of shame resilience. While positively contributing towards this age group’s sense of wellbeing, promoting empathy, feelings of joy, happiness and creating intergenerational relationships.’

Georgia’s Bio:

Georgia Bowers is a nationally recognised artist facilitator/researcher who specialises in

applied theatre practice with adults aged 65+. She is an Associate Lecturer at the University

of Portsmouth and the University of Chichester. Georgia serves as a committee member for

the British Society of Gerontology's Creative Ageing: Special Interest Group and is a trustee

for London Bubble Theatre Company. She is also the Graduate School Representative for the

Association for Theatre in Higher Education: Wellness, Community and Ageing Focus Group.

As of 2021, Georgia is the Lead Artist for the Chichester Festival Theatre's The Chatter

Project, which works with older adults from across the South Coast. 

Georgia is a graduate of the University of Chichester (BA Hons, Performing Arts and Music:

First Class) and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (MA Applied Theatre: Drama

in the Community and Drama Education). She is currently undertaking her PhD at the

University of Portsmouth, where her research is examining the impact of applied theatre

with older adults in England. 

Her previous professional engagements have included: Royal Opera House, Chichester

Festival Theatre, Brighton People’s Theatre, Spare Tyre, Young Carers: BUCKS, London

Bubble, Hampstead Theatre, Almeida Theatre and Watford Palace Theatre.

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #GeorgiaBowers

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Casey & I discussed his journey. From where he started, the Birmingham raised Grime Emcee had aspirations of being Birmingham’s biggest and brightest act. Casey didn’t stop there. This conversation is littered with inspiration and a dive into the mindset of a writer, performer and educator. Earlier this year Casey, the Birmingham Poet Laureate and winner of the Greater Birmingham Future Face of Arts and Culture 2020, showcased his new play ‘Grime Boy’, we discussed processes, where the play sits culturally in the city of Birmingham and how his writing now transcends his intended audiences.

Thank you Casey for your time.

Casey’s new book ‘From This Soil’ is available to buy here:

BUY 'From This Soil'

Casey’s Links:

http://caseybailey.co.uk/

Twitter - @MrCaseyBailey

Instagram - @casey_bailey

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #CaseyBailey

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Honoured to have been approached to interview Aaron and Mallory about their new book, ‘The City We Make Together: City Council Meeting’s Primer For Participation’. The book explores their performance City Council Meeting which is just that! Using verbatim accounts from real city council meetings, Aaron and Mallory invite audiences to take up the role of not only city council employees but those community members who attend with real issues they seek to be resolved. We discuss the making of the show and subsequently the content of their book which supplies readers with the tools and suggested approaches for staging their very own City Council Meeting. A deep dive into how democratic spaces can be cultivated and ways in which theatre can be used as a tool to benefit communities.

Thank you both Aaron and Mallory for your time.

‘The City We Make Together: City Council Meeting’s Primer For Participation’ can be found here:

BUY NOW

Aaron and Mallory’s links:

http://www.thinaar.com/

https://mallorycatlett.net/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #thecitywemaketogether

Adrian shared with me his passion for people and producing theatre. After our conversation he made me realise great producing involves consideration for the people who both make and experience art. His passion for truthful authentic spaces outlines his approach to ensuring Outreach & Inclusion is genuine, exciting and provoking.

Thank you Adrian for your time.

Adrian’s links:

Twitter - @adriandgard

Instagram - @Aadriandga

https://lyric.co.uk/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #lyrichammersmith

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Tracy and Brad are Artistic Activists. From their approach to making performance to their outlook on their work not being complete until equity and equality are for all, they wholeheartedly live and breathe the work which has recently earned ‘Unanima Theatre’, National Portfolio Organisation status from the Arts Council England. Our conversation explored how Unanima operates, and how they approach making performances with Learning Disabled, Autistic Actors. Make no mistake, they pull no punches, their actors work as a professional ensemble and their mission is for audiences to uphold their work to that same standard.

Thank you Tracy and Brad for your time.

Unanima is a Mansfield-based theatre company that has been creating work since 2008. Our cast are exclusively Learning Disabled and Autistic, and using a collaborative devising process we create unique witty, provocative theatre based on their lives, experiences and questions about the world.

Through compelling performances that invite audiences to ponder and wonder we seek to stimulate social change.

We are becoming increasingly intolerant of Learning Disabled and Autistic people being overlooked and infantilised by society and we will continue to produce art that sparks solutions until this has stopped.

Unanima’s links:

Twitter - @unanimatheatre

Instagram - @Unanima

Website - https://www.unanima-theatre.co.uk/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #Unanima

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Bullet Point Theatre Company consists of Writer, Lucinda Coyle and Director, Samuel Xavier. From 6th June - 14th June their show, ‘Our Last First’ will be performed at The Space Theatre, London. Both Lucy and Samuel share a passion for change-making. Throughout our conversation, they shared with me their thoughts on how the acting/performance industry could look if populated more broadly, by those who currently ‘do not fit’. Their show ‘Our Last First’ is a testament to this belief ‘Written without any pronouns, genders, names, ages, or physical descriptions this play is designed to be played by any and every actor’. Our conversation also provided insight into the landscape of life running an independent theatre company, and how they approach making and selling their work.

Thank you Samuel and Lucy for your time.

Bullet Point Theatre is co-founded by Lucinda Coyle and Samuel Xavier.  It was created with one aim, for each show topic to be about a voice or conversation that is not allowed time or space. We believe that theatre needs to prove points, encourage change, and show realities on stage that our audiences would often shy away from. Dramas on tv and film of course portray it, but audiences can distract themselves from the truth by getting their phones out. Theatre provides two, or three, hours of inescapable truth, where you can’t hide behind a cushion if you feel uncomfortable. If an audience feels comfortable whilst watching one of our shows then we haven’t done our job. The writing is honest. The staging is truthful and all our dramas highlight either injustice or evoke the need for change.

Bullet Points links:

Twitter - @bulletpointtc

Instagram - @bulletpointtc

Website - https://www.bulletpointtheatre.co.uk/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Tony Cealy is a British Applied Theatre Practitioner. His work spans all community practice areas including workshop facilitation, performance making and facilitator training. Spending the hour with Tony chatting through his story, his training and the work he now produces highlights how much he loves his profession and cares about the impact of his work. A true master, I thank you Tony for your insight and time.

I’m a drama facilitator, theatre practitioner, arts activist, and creative producer who makes projects and programmes designed to engage the public in issues that are important for social and behavioral change. I am inspired by the creative arts and I work collaboratively with communities, artists, organisations and institutions to plan deliver and evaluate projects, programmes and arts experiences within the public realm.

Bullet Points links:

Twitter - @tonycealy

Website - https://tonycealy.com/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

The Wallis Annenberg Centre for Performing Arts, in Beverly Hills, California has a new Executive Director and CEO. Robert shared with me the already outstanding work the Wallis has produced to earn its reputable identity within the Beverly Hills community. Roberts vision, driven by the voices of not only those who pre date his arrival at the Wallis, now shifts outwards to his building civic responsibility, hoping to address the boundaries for engagement and re shape the Wallis into a learning, evolving space for the next generation of artists. Thank you Robert for your time.

Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, located in the heart of Beverly Hills, CA, is a dynamic cultural hub and community resource where local, national, and international artists share their artistry with ever-expanding audiences. Distinguished by its eclectic programming that mirrors the diverse landscape of Los Angeles and its location in the entertainment capital of the world, The Wallis has produced and presented more than 400 theater, dance, music, film, cabaret, comedy, performance arts, and family entertainment programs, boasting nominations for 79 Ovation Awards and nine L.A. Drama Critic's Circle Awards as well as six architectural awards. Since its doors opened in October 2013, The Wallis has been committed to robust and distinctive presentations and education programs curated with both creativity and social impact in mind.

Wallis Annenberg Centre links:

Website - https://thewallis.org

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Fallen Angels Dance Theatre is led by ‘Artist in recovery’, Paul Bayes-Kitcher. A former professional Ballet Dancer, Paul shared with me his highest highs and lowest lows, detailing how his own struggles with addiction led him to form Fallen Angels. The company which is Liverpool-based, provides outreach in both Liverpool and Chester for those interested in movement, expression and on a journey of recovery. Paul’s story is both inspiring and cautionary. Fallen Angels places ‘emphasis on the group experience, achieving something special together’, as well as combining both professional and community ensembles to produce professional performance. Thank you Paul for sharing your story and detailing the beautiful practice your company produces.

‘Fallen Angels Dance Theatre exist to support those in recovery from addiction and those living with mental health adversity to transform their lives, and share their recovery journey, through dance, performance and creativity.’

Fallen Angels links:

Website - https://fallenangelsdt.org/

Instagram - @fallenangelsrising

Twitter - @FallenAngelsDT

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Computers & Theatre, led by Artistic Director Paul Sutton, revolutionises how participatory theatre is made, accessed and experienced. Our conversation explores their mission to make responsive Applied Theatre accessible to classrooms and participants globally. Their technology ‘Prospero’ is designed to enable access to creative learning in any space with a computer, it is also intelligent enough to complement the pace, style and decision-making of those participating with the hundreds of interactive workshops, performances and lessons available—a huge thank you Paul for your time.

‘C&T is a team of applied theatre practitioners, technologists and researchers, finding new ways of fusing drama and digital technologies. Our award-winning Prospero theatre technology is transforming lives and communities around the world.’

C&T links:

Website - https://www.candt.org/

Instagram - @candt_theatre

Twitter - @c_&_t

Applied Theatre Podcast:

Twitter - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #C&T #computers

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Discover the insightful world of "A Pocket Full of Drama" by the talented author Sam Marsden, part of their Drama Resource Book Series. Sam's firsthand experience of teaching in both regular and non-traditional education settings gives you a real feel for how these books are put together. They're written so well for teachers, facilitators, or anyone keen on adding drama to their skill set. Each game and exercise is explained thoroughly and laid out well to make sure the person leading the activity knows exactly what they're doing. I've tried out the books myself and can confirm that there are plenty of really fun, new games to discover. Thank you Sam for your time.

‘Sam's work hopes to empower and spark people's creativity, whether through her drama teaching, teaching resources, or fiction’

Sams links:

Website - https://www.marsdensam.com/

Instagram - @poketfulofdrama

X - @sammarsdendrama

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #SamMarsden #Dramaresource

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

London Bubble Theatre is situated in South London and primarily operates in Southwark. Marie Vickers, the Artistic Director, enthusiastically detailed the theatre’s exceptional community-facing programmes, showcasing their dedication to providing the community with genuine, adventurous, and thoughtful arts engagement. Their outreach programmes cater to children, young people, and their "Bubble for Older Adults" initiative, offering individuals over 55 opportunities to connect and create. London Bubble Theatre exemplifies how theatre can significantly benefit a community, offering valuable insights into effective community engagement. Thank you, Marie, for your valuable insights.

MAKING THEATRE FROM THE STORIES THAT MATTER TO OUR COMMUNITY, TO CREATE A FAIRER SOCIETY.

We care about creativity, connection and community.

London Bubble links:

Website - https://www.londonbubble.org.uk

Instagram - @bubbletheatre

X - @lbubble

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #LondonBubble #Theatre

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Dr. Thalia Goldstein, an associate professor and director of the Applied Developmental Psychology program in the Department of Psychology at George Mason University, released a new book titled 'Why Theatre Education Matters' in the summer of 2024. The book delves into the examination of psychological processes involved when participating in theatre. Dr. Goldstein shares her research findings and provides practical applications for facilitators, educators, and actors. As the practice of Applied Theatre continues to evolve, Dr. Thalia Goldstein's research deserves recognition and consideration when advocating for the pivotal role of drama and theatre in the development of young individuals. Greatly appreciate your time, Thalia. Thank you.

Why Theatre Education Matters: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Theatre-Education-Matters-Understanding/dp/0807769983

Why Theatre Education Matters, published in summer 2024, is a psychological analysis and

description of the benefits of learning how to act and perform. This book looks behind the

curtain of theatre education to see how thinking on stage happens in real classrooms.

Thalia’s links:

Website - https://www.thaliagoldstein.com/

X - https://x.com/thaliagoldstein

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #Thalia Goldstein #Why Theatre Education Matters #Psychology

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Episode Summary

Dr. Luke Allder, an applied performance and visual artist practitioner, joins me to discuss the Attune Project, a large-scale research initiative exploring creativity and mental health in adolescents with adverse childhood experiences. Luke, based at the University of Kent, collaborates with a multidisciplinary team across Oxford, Leeds, and Falmouth to develop innovative approaches to youth mental health support.

Luke shares insights into various strands of delivery, where creative workshops—including collage, animation, and dance—were used to engage young people in discussions about their mental health, identifying key protective and risk factors. These findings informed the development of "Validating Voices," a professional toolkit designed to help educators, charities, and healthcare workers foster meaningful conversations with young people about validation and well-being. Throughout our time together, Luke shared his challenges and successes of integrating creative methodologies into mental health support. The conversation highlights the power of creativity, validation, and lived experience in supporting young people through adversity. Thank you Luke for your time.

Lukes links:

Website - https://www.attuneproject.com/https/wwwattuneprojectcom/what-is-validating-voices

https://kar.kent.ac.uk/100356/

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #applied theatre #podcast #LUKE ALLDER #ATTUNE PROJECT

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Mattea and Lydia form Balancing Act, a theatre company focused on playfulness and storytelling for all. They share their approach to devising theatre that creates inclusive, supportive spaces where participants—regardless of background, age, or experience—can express themselves freely.

They discuss the power of theatre in fostering community. With backgrounds in drama, psychology, Mattea and Lydia reflect on how play can be a tool for well-being, particularly for neurodivergent young people and older adults. Their work brings together diverse groups, from corporate professionals to retired women, emphasising that creativity is for everyone.

The duo shares heartwarming anecdotes of participants forming friendships, supporting each other, and embracing silliness as a form of self-expression. Ultimately, Balancing Act champions theatre as a socially prescribed necessity—an accessible, joyful space where everyone can benefit from play. Whether through improvisation, movement, or devised storytelling, their work proves that creativity has a profound impact on mental well-being. Thank you both for your time.

Balancing Act’s links:

Website - www.batheatre.com

Instagram: @batheatrearts

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #appliedtheatre #appliedtheatrepodcast #podcast #balancingact

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and YouTube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

Professor Sarah Saddler explores her groundbreaking research on the role of Applied Theatre within corporate settings, particularly across India, South Africa, and the UAE. Drawing from her book Performing Corporate Bodies, she discusses how theatre techniques, such as role play and improvisation are used not just for team-building, but as tools to instil corporate values, promote behavioural development, and align employees with company ideologies.

Sarah challenges the traditional view of Applied Theatre as solely activist or liberatory, arguing that in corporate contexts, these methods often blur the lines between empowerment and control. Through ethnographic case studies, she highlights how theatre is employed in tech firms, luxury brands, and even post-apartheid workplaces sometimes reinforcing hierarchies, other times offering cathartic release or subtle resistance.

Our conversation unpacks how this evolving practice reshapes ideas of community, identity, and agency, particularly in neoliberal work environments. We chatted about navigating the emotional complexity for both facilitators and participants, raising significant questions about the ethics of theatrical interventions in profit-driven spaces. Thank you Sarah for sharing your thought-provoking research exploring the power and politics of Applied Performance in unexpected places.

BUY Sarah’s Book HERE!:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Performing-Corporate-Bodies-Multinational-Performance/dp/1032421428

Sarah’s links:

Website - https://baruch.cuny.edu/profiles/faculty/Sarah-Saddler

Applied Theatre Podcast:

X - @Apptheatrepod

Instagram - @AppliedTheatrePod

Email - appliedtheatrepodcast@gmail.com

Subscribe on Spotify, Apple & Google Podcasts and Youtube (w/subtitles) - Applied Theatre Podcast

#theatre #appliedtheatre #appliedtheatrepodcast #podcast #SarahSaddler #PerformingCorporateBodies