Is Touring Dead? - Panel Discussion & Networking Lunch

Making More Waves presents a lively and urgent panel discussion tackling one of the most pressing questions facing the performing arts today. With the landscape of touring dramatically shifted by the COVID crisis, rising costs of living, Brexit’s impact on international movement, austerity, dwindling arts funding, and growing environmental concerns, what does the future hold for touring artists and companies?

Can performing artists still hope to tour? Should they? How can they navigate these new challenges while staying sustainable, both financially and environmentally? Hear from industry experts as we explore solutions, debate the realities, and ask: Is touring really dead, or is it evolving into something new? Whether you're a performer, producer, or company director, this is an essential conversation for anyone who’s been impacted by the shifting dynamics of live performance.

Following the panel, join us for a networking lunch, where the conversation can continue informally while you catch up with friends and colleagues, meet new people, and discover exciting work being created in Kent and Essex.

Panellists:

• Dawn Badland, Director, Applause Rural Touring
• Jan Ryan, Director, ARK
• Joanna Crowley, Producer, 1927
• Pam Hardiman, Freelance Theatre Programmer (currently at The Alex, Faversham)
• Mark Makin, Tour booker, makin projects

About Making More Waves:

Making More Waves is a performing arts festival presented by Looping the Loop & ARK, partnering up to deliver an exciting programme running November 8th - 17th, 2024.

Join us for a celebration of performances created in Kent and Essex, featuring some of the region’s best-loved creatives, alongside emerging performers presenting new work, workshops and professional development opportunities.

Access

ARK is on the ground floor and accessible through a short portable ramp. Both the foyer and auditorium are step-free. There are accessible toilets on the ground floor. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you would like to discuss any access requirements: loopingtheloop@gmail.com