Different Stages: Exploring public engagement for Drama and Theatre early career academics is a project run by Dr Naomi Paxton from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London, and funded by the British Academy. https://www.cssd.ac.uk/different-stages

The project is designed for Drama and Theatre PhD students and ECRs to discuss the role of public engagement and knowledge exchange within the discipline, to identify key areas in which advocacy for research in Drama and Theatre might be used to influence policy, and to learn skills so they can take the lead in creating opportunities for interdisciplinary and creative collaboration both within their institutions and as independent researchers.

The Birmingham workshop will run from 10.00am to 4.30pm on the 3rd March in the John Peek Room at the BMI. It is free to attend and for any PhD student or ECR researching Drama and Theatre, or including drama and theatre practices within their interdisciplinary research. For the purposes of this project there are no time limits on ECR status or a need for a current academic affiliation – all are welcome!

The themes of this workshop are interpretation and the canon, and the role of media in disseminating and reframing research. Guest speakers are Dr Victoria McGuinness (Head of Research Partnerships, TORCH), and Dr Claire Warden (Senior Lecturer in English and Drama, Loughborough University).

10-10.15am - Arrival and refreshments

10.15 - Workshop starts

11.15-12.15 - Guest speaker Dr Victoria McGuinness

12.30-1.30 - Lunch break (lunch not provided)

2.45-3.30 Guest speaker Dr Claire Warden

3.30-3.45 - Break

4.30 - Workshop ends

There is an Different Stages evening showcase event which workshop participants are encouraged to attend. The event will highlight examples of interesting and exciting work being done in and with theatre and performance by academics and practitioners based in the West Midlands. Through a series of short talks presenters will share their ideas, research and projects – to open up their work to new audiences and make new connections. All are welcome and tickets are free but must be booked in advance.

It is being held in the same venue from 6.30-8pm. Tickets are free and must be reserved separately via this link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/different-stages-birmingham-showcase-tickets-92698717359