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We have a check list for putting on shows in non-traditional spaces, which is as much about the team’s attitude and values as having practical steps, like lists and schedules. It's like camping. Be prepared. Like a good scout. @JumpedUpTheatre #SummerSocialTakeover 1/13
1) Assume nothing. Something will happen, or not happen, which you couldn’t have predicted – have the CAPACITY to deal with issues as they arise - which includes having a great team, who understand what you are trying to do. 2/13
#GroundControl @nonzeroone in Peterborough Town Hall. We arrived to set up for 9am show the next day to be told that the room was needed a vital council meeting, that evening. Team took a deep breath. Sighed. And agreed to come in at 7am the next day.
2) PEOPLE can be your best asset. Or your greatest barrier. Build relationships with everyone associated with the space. The CEO may sign it off, but you also need the key holder on your side. Remember you are a guest in their "home". 4/13
#WorkhouseChristmas @vivacity_museum. After weeks of rehearsal & shows the staff loved how we celebrated the building, and as we packed they asked when we were coming back. Being polite and washing up your coffee mugs goes a long way. 5/13
3) Understand the POWER OF PLACE. Sometimes it's as much the vibe and timing, as the content and location. Is an audience keen to come into that space? What is the prep you need to do to get that new audience in to something different in their space? 6/13
#UntilYouHearThatBell @seanysense WOWed a packed house in a room in a popular pub. When I put it in a boxing club, we died. The boxers loved meeting him earlier in the week, but I should have made the show part of that training session. 7/13
4) AUDIENCE CARE is everything. Signage, easy ticketing, show info, access to toilets, support for different needs, buggy park, the FOH welcome - they are part of the event, make the audience feel as special as they are. 8/13
Again @vivacity_museum I hadn't thought enough about disabled access, so in the first show, rather than relaxing in the glory of its success, I found myself improvising new routes around building and magicking up chairs. Make access core. 9/13
5) DOT THE EYES AND CROSS THE T'S - get agreements written down, and widely understood. Contracts are essential, even when it's all been done on a handshake, to focus people's attention - paying hire charges helps, and changes the dynamic. 10/13
There is a reason why theatres have contracts and riders - putting on shows is a complex balance of dynamics, which need pinning down. Work with the venue's paperwork, add your own - and walk through the implications. 11/13
