Reflections on Our 2024 Trip: Shaping the Future of ActNow Theatre
My recent journey to Norway and the Czech Republic was born from a serendipitous encounter with NIE Theatre Company's Artistic Director, Kjell Moberg, during the DreamBig festival 2023 in Adelaide. Our shared panel discussion on creating work for young audiences revealed a profound alignment in our practices, values, and organisational ambitions, leading to an exciting exploration of a collaborative partnership between NIE and ActNow Theatre.
Thanks to Arts South Australia's support, my colleague Nescha and I embarked on a transformative two-week experience with NIE. Kjell's meticulously crafted itinerary introduced us to extraordinary organisations and artists, deepening our connection with the NIE team.
As I reflect on our recent trip, I find myself contemplating the profound impact it has had on my vision for the future of ActNow Theatre. While I could delve into the myriad of fascinating individuals and organisations we encountered, I'd like to focus on how this experience has reshaped my thinking about our company's direction and purpose.
One of the most significant realisations from this trip is the importance of articulating what we do more precisely. We've come to understand that one of our primary goals isn't just about developing individual artists - it's about developing the entire industry. This shift in perspective is crucial. By focusing on industry development, we naturally foster the growth of our artists as a byproduct of our larger ambition.
Another key insight is the vital importance of presenting our work to general public audiences. We've recognised the need to create spaces where communities can showcase their own work. This approach not only broadens our reach but also deepens our connection with diverse audiences, enriching the theatrical landscape.
The trip has prompted us to reconsider what 'agency' truly means in the context of theatre. We're now addressing the challenge of presenting trauma stories while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our artists. This delicate balance has led to some bold decisions in our approach moving forward.
Our experiences in Norway and Prague were eye-opening. From shared lunches with Norwegian teams that showcased their organisational warmth and camaraderie, to watching 'The End of Everything Ever' in Prague - a masterpiece in ensemble storytelling - each moment deepened our understanding of documentary and ensemble theatre.
The Documentary Theatre Conference in Prague was particularly validating, affirming that we were in a space of shared values and artistic integrity.
One of the most thrilling outcomes of the trip is the potential collaboration with NIE, particularly around themes of democracy and mental health. Their availability in 2026 presents exciting opportunities for community workshops and creative development in Adelaide, involving our local artists.
Collaborating with NIE fulfils a long-held dream of mine, sparked almost 20 years ago when I first saw their performance 'The End of Everything Ever' in Edinburgh. The opportunity to work with this exceptional company is truly exciting.
As we integrate these insights into ActNow Theatre, we're poised for growth and innovation. Our journey is about shaping the future of theatre itself, fostering an industry that is more inclusive, impactful, and responsive to the needs of both artists and audiences.
This trip has been a catalyst for change, expanding our network, deepening our knowledge, and setting the stage for exciting projects ahead. We're grateful to Arts South Australia for making this possible and to Kjell for curating such an incredible experience. As we move forward, we carry these valuable lessons with us, ready to implement them in our upcoming projects and long-term strategies.
The future of ActNow Theatre is bright, and we can't wait to share what's coming next!