Since coming back into the arts in 2010, connecting with communities has become a really important part of how I work. Wherever I perform, I try to build relationships with the people who live there, not just arrive, do the show, and leave.

 

Over the years, I’ve delivered close to 100 workshops as part of developing my one-woman shows. These aren’t just about testing material, they’re about listening. I spend time with different groups, hearing about their experiences, what they enjoy, and what might stop them from coming to see a show.

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A big part of my work has been reaching people from the global majority, especially those who don’t always feel that theatre is for them. Rather than expecting people to come into traditional theatre spaces, I go to where communities already are and start conversations there.

 

One of the most interesting things I’ve learned is how much language matters. When I asked people why they didn’t go to the theatre, some said they didn’t know what “theatre” was, but when I said “stage show,” they immediately understood. That really stayed with me. Every culture has a connection to the arts, but we don’t always use the same words for it.

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I’m also passionate about encouraging people to see the arts as a possible career. For many, it’s just never been presented as an option, so opening up that idea can be really powerful.

This way of working has led me to collaborate with organisations like Pleasance Theatre, Dundee Rep Theatre, Falkirk Council, Cumbernauld Theatre, and Citizens Theatre.

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When Douglas Maxwell, who has been dramaturge in all my box plays, came to see Chatterbox at the Citizens recently. he said "you have created an audience from no where"
I have been approached by NTS to apply for a community project so want to make sure I have all the right things in place.

 

I’ve seen a real shift in who comes to my shows. What started as just a handful of people of colour in the audience has grown to over 90%. That change means a lot to me, it shows what can happen when people feel welcomed, represented, and included.