Opening Doors
In this discussion a roundtable of makers, educators and thinkers explored models of practice to aid artists in the creation of work for very young audiences, in early years education and crèche settings. Panellists mapped and articulated models of best practice arising from International and national projects such as 'Mapping', 'Small Size' and 'Graffiti BEAG'. Using the work created during these projects as case studies, panellists shared their experiences and explored the challenges and opportunities in bringing work to these settings.
The panel featured Gaëtane Reginster (Théâtre de la Guimbarde, Belgium), Marc Mac Lochlainn (Branar, Ireland) and Dr. Rita Melia (Atlantic Technological University, Ireland). Chaired by Marianne Kennedy (University of Galway, Ireland).
Opening Doors was presented as part of the Creative Europe MAPPING Project.
Recorded on October 17, 2022 during Baboró’s annual festival.
Learn more about MAPPING here.
Towards Sustainability
In partnership with Branar’s Meitheal Initiative, this panel discussion explored models of practice which support the sustainable development of career paths for independent artists making work for young audiences.
The panel featured Tony Reekie (Catherine Wheels, Scotland), Kate Cross (The Egg, England), Dan Colley and Matt Smyth (Creators of 'The Man with Enormous Wings' and formerly Collapsing Horse, Ireland), Emer McGowan (Draíocht, Ireland). Chaired by Linda Geraghty (Branar/Meitheal, Ireland).
Meitheal is a pilot creative supports initiative committed to the development and presentation of performing arts for young audiences across Ireland. Devised by Branar, funded by the Arts Council.
Recorded on October 18, 2022 during Baboró’s annual festival.
Learn more about Meitheal here.
Reflecting on LEAP
The participants and stakeholders of Baboró’s LEAP artist support programme discussed the pilot project's development and execution.
The panel featured Rachel Baltz (Baboró, Ireland), Alexandra Craciun (LEAP Participant, Romania and Ireland), Fernanda Ferrari (LEAP Participant, Brazil and Ireland), Justyna Cwojdzińska (LEAP Participant, Poland and Ireland), Ionia Ní Chróinín (Moonfish, Ireland) Jo Cummins (Moonfish, Ireland) and Maeve Stone (Cracking Light Productions, Ireland). Chaired by Dr. Charlotte McIvor (Drama and Theatre Studies, University of Galway, Ireland).
This recorded discussion asks:
- What did we learn from the process?
- What were the successes as well as the failings?
- What unique role does diversity play in the Theatre for Young Audiences sector in Ireland today?
LEAP is a partnership between Baboró, Moonfish Theatre, and University of Galway. LEAP aims to bridge the gap between the diversity of Ireland's young audiences and that of the artists programmed to create and present work for them.
Funded by the Arts Council with further support from the Irish Research Council.
Recorded on October 17, 2022 during Baboró’s annual festival.
Learn more about LEAP here.
