About this website: On the 26th and 27th of November 2009, a group of people came together at the Crescent Theatre in Birmingham to begin to answer the question "How do we create a better future for theatre, here, in the West Midlands". This website holds the notes from the sessions held over those two days, and allows anyone (whether they were present at the event or not) to continue the conversations from the event. You can read Alison Gagen's full invitation to the event here

How do you find the right people to work with?

Convenor:

David Bennett

Attendees:

To begin with: SAYAN KENT; KAZ LUCKINS; ELLIE ROBINSON Joined by (after 20 mins): JENNY STEPHENS; TRACY BRIGGS; JOHNNY O’HANLON

Description:

Habitually we go to people we already know, and know us.

Also, by referral by the same people.

Networking – proactive talking to people whose work you admire (care needed with tone and approach so as to not come across as too needy or demanding)

A lot happens by chance, and trial and error, and so can take time or one can be very lucky.

Possible actions/examples:

• Speed dating at network events
• Non-committal workshop – care needed how this is managed, possible issues around power/personality in sharing contacts
• http://www.redteapot.co.uk
• Artsjobs
• Network events, Equity/Writer’s Guild (bring beer and wine)

No magic wand but about getting yourself out there, including your work as example of where you’re coming from.

PS Sayan and I are meeting for coffee to talk about stuff, so maybe events like this do work, watch this space…