AHRC/IAA IMPACT STUDY – TEESSIDE UNIVERSITY 2023-2025

From Nov 23 to July 25, working with illustrator Becki Harper on a AHRC funded IAA Impact study for You Can Take Me Home Toni by theatre maker Lorraine Smith.

Research and facilitate activity for Teesside University, with an extension to funding based on the strength of recommendations and desired outcomes in our first creative response. The report focussed on knowledge garnered through creative process, psycho-social impact and generating methodology for qualitative and quantitative assessment of impact of costume and thematic content of the performance created. Research has been undertaken capturing baseline activity, generating creative experiences for audience feedback and psychological debriefs of the creative process with artists, which continues to inform, develop the show and strengthen its workshop offer.

NEW WAVE 2024 -2026

Creating a space over two years at Middlesbrough Town Hall with adult learners aged between 50 and 83. Ensuring that creativity and expression of experience is supported at any age and in any cultural setting. Creating short form stories, poems, Shakespearean monologues, radio plays, short films – co-produced and citizen led group.

HISTORIC ENGLAND HI STREETS 2023

Working alongside Historic England, Teesside Archives and Middlesbrough Council to bring to life female statues of under-represented trailblazers from within our region. This was part of Historic England’s national campaign inviting people to celebrate High Streets working with Emergency Exit Arts.

HAPPY ROOMS 2024

Joy Bringer in Carole Keatings Happy Room for Stellar Creates🍦

Helping over 15,000 folks to generate pledges in return for free ice cream. Hilarious pledges from young children, reflective posts from new parents, brilliant ideas from care homes and community groups and moments of beauty – including lots of hugs from people, both joyful and sad.

As a facilitator it’s been lush to just bring joy to people and listen to them talk. Nothing needed, no exhausting questions, just stop and listen.

HE LECTURER

Supporting new students with workshops surrounding acting, directing, writing and work related experience.

Sutton Coldfield College, Stockton Riverside College, Teesside University.

WRITING WORKSHOPS (ARVON)

Working alongside two primary schools in Redcar & Cleveland on a six week programme developing stories, writing, scripts and ending narratives. Feedback from the schools –

ARTS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Supporting cultural venues, connecting artists with programmes of work in Health and Education, leading on initiatives such as Creative Factory, working with national funding bodies to maintain programme work, developing and facilitating creative workshops within the Council, support and advocacy for freelancers & creative companies as well as programming work from companies such as Fevered Sleep, Paines Plough and Helix Arts. 

DRAMA SCHOOL

Lead for 5 years at Middlesbrough Town Hall Performing Arts. Teaches regularly for Middlesbrough Youth Theatre and PQA Tees Valley.