Coffee Chats with Team FA

Ever wanted to grab a coffee with us and dig into the questions that don't always come up?

We're back with another Coffee Chat, and this time we're joined by Associate Artists Eugenia Low, actor, and Ria Samartzi, director and dramaturg, who have been working with us for nearly a decade. 

Together we’ll open up a conversation about leadership, collaboration, and what it really takes to sustain a creative practice – with honest reflections from us and our Associate Artists. We'll share some snapshots of our journey and move through a few practical exercises to spark exchange and connection. Come with your questions, your experiences, or just your curiosity.

Below, you’ll find all the details about the session. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Whether you're thinking of starting your own company, producing your own work, or simply want to connect with people asking similar questions, pull up a chair.

Who it's for: This is for actors, theatre artists and makers, and creative practitioners (including translators!) who:

• Are curious about our work and approach.

• Are thinking about starting their own company or producing their own work.
• Want to connect, exchange ideas, and chat about theatre-making.
• Whether you’re just starting out or looking for fresh inspiration, you’re very welcome!

We'll explore:

• The realities of making and producing theatre as an independent artist or company

• What we're learning right now about leadership, collaboration, and sustainability
• How to find your own path, with honest reflections from us and our Associate Artists
• Your questions, your experiences, your practice

How it works:

• Open conversation – we'll share some key milestones from our journey that have shaped our practice to get things started, then the session opens up to the group. No set agenda, no wrong questions.

• Shaped by you – based on questions we ask when you sign up, we'll weave in short practical exercises to spark discussion and make space for the conversations that matter to you.

Why We’re Doing This:

As a tiny (mostly two-person) team, we don’t always get to have one-on-one meet-ups – but we love meeting new people! So, we’re opening our doors and creating a space to share, connect, and exchange ideas.

When we started out, so many doors felt closed – or didn’t even seem to exist. We want to change that. By sharing our experiences, lessons learned, and the realities of making theatre, we hope to help make the path a little more open for others.

So, grab a coffee (or tea!) and join us for a chat. Let’s talk theatre!

When It’s Happening

Our next Coffee Chat is: Tuesday 5 May, 13:30-16:30

Schedule

• 13:30-14:00: Arrival & Refreshments
• 14:00-16:00: Coffee Chat session with Team FA (including a 10-minute break)
• 16:00-16:30: Wrap-Up & Networking

Before and after each session everyone will have time to connect, reflect, and ease in and out of the session. We'll also be around to chat all things theatre and translation.

How Much It Costs

The Coffee Chats sessions are free, but spaces are limited – so booking is essential!

Get In Touch: If you have any questions, please first check out our FAQs on our website. If you still need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at team@foreignaffairs.org.uk.