By: Natasha Pavey, Artist for Change
September 2023
Hi! I’m Natasha (she/her) and I am one of two new Artists for Change at the Theatre Royal Plymouth. It’s been over a month since I started my role! Where does the time go!? Here’s what I’ve been up to and a glimpse into what’s to come!
I took up my new role in July and have been busy getting to grips with everything. Our roles as Artist for Change are supported by the Jerwood Developing Artists Fund and are a one year long position. Our focus is on pushing for change in areas including diversity and inclusion, and the climate emergency. We will be developing new and exciting creative projects for TRP which will bring different communities into the theatre and make waves in Britain’s Ocean City…not too much to ask, eh?
From seeing my face on TV screens across the theatre (including being projected onto the back of the theatre at night – woah!) to meeting the team and getting to know how the theatre runs day in, day out, I’m grateful to have had the warmest welcome! I’ve had tours, watched tech rehearsals and met all of the heads of departments. My personal passion and focus in my role as Artist for Change is the climate emergency so I’ve also been connecting with environmental activists within the city and getting involved with different groups who are working around climate justice and the arts in Plymouth. I’ve been brainstorming exciting projects for the year ahead which bring the community into the theatre. I’ve realised that I’d love to bring a call to action on the climate emergency to Plymouth, using the arts to creatively sound the alarm and continue to put the South West on the map for climate action (hmm yes, start small, they say…!).
It’s safe to say, I definitely feel part of the team now and I’m ready to make some exciting ideas happen! Now all we need is the rest of the Creative Leadership Team (Associate Directors, Tom, John and Malaika) to join us in the office in September and we’re off! I’m filled with gratitude and excitement to be surrounded by such wonderful creatives. The future of TRPs creative work is looking fab. I’m super proud to be part of an organisation that puts diversity, inclusion and the climate emergency front and centre. In a time where the world is extremely scary in many ways, these things must be a priority. Stay tuned for the year ahead!
Watch Natasha’s introduction video: