How do we make people feel that theatre is something they can be part of?

Alex Walker, 5 September 2012

What is stopping them? Is it that theatre is seen as elitist/middle class/ not for the likes of us?

Is it about relevance to their lives?

What do we mean by ‘being part of’? Some might want to actively participate - others to be part of an audience that is being reached out to.

Should the question be worded ‘make’ or rather ‘enable’ or ‘encourage’?

Theatre is about communication - so we should be able to find creative ways to reach out and involve (unless we are so self-absorbed that we don't actually want to ….)

Should we be thinking about what the purpose of theatre/ art is and communicating that? Would discussing that enable us to find ways to talk to people? For example sharing what outlets we have for expression?

Are there propblems with the physical buildings we work in? Do they appear intimidating? Who feels they can or can't cross the threshold? Do people feel they won't know what to do? where to go? how to behave? How do we signal that we are open/ welcoming?

Tags:

Access, access, participation, Diversity, diversity, class