Catherine Rose looks at the work the Theatre Education Network is doing to bring the sector together.
Exceptionally busy people, far-flung organisations and professionals working without much contact with colleagues in an undervalued and underpaid sector ? the theatre education world in a nutshell! Although local and regional networks have started to tackle these problems, there is still work to be done. Plainly, a sector that includes repertory theatres, mixed arts centres and freelancers has varied needs, which can be highly specific to sub-groups and individuals. However, there are many common issues, which the Theatre Education Network (TEN) is addressing.
Raising profile and status
Theatre education work, whether in practice or in management, has struggled to achieve the status and profile it deserves. The importance of creative education is beginning to be recognised, and the value of those who carry it out must follow. TEN is able to bring together baseline information about the sector, including pay and working conditions, as a basis for lobbying, information and for further research.
Designing networking opportunities for a sector
TEN is in constant consultation with theatre educators in order to meet networking and training needs. We are developing a constructive view of the problems facing the profession, as we become increasingly aware of the issues that practitioners are dealing with on a daily basis. TEN offers the best chance for professionals up and down the country to become aware of each other?s work, and to meet and learn from each other. We aim to offer access to expert advice about professional practice and to be a window on the theatre education world.
Meetings
TEN offers a balanced combination of networking, training and information through our Professional Development Network meetings. The coming series of meetings (see below) displays the impressive range of content, involving respected guest practitioners and TEN members sharing the latest research, ideas, projects and challenges, and initiating topical debate. We have created these meetings in response to our members? needs and requests. N
To attend a TEN meeting, visit www.theatre-ed.net for information and a booking form, or call TEN and speak to Debi or Kim at 01223 200210.
