I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of representing Open Drama UK at The National Theatre’s Drama Teachers Conference over the last two days. After two years of disruption due to COVID-19, it was thrilling to be welcomed in person to the National Theatre for the conference. The purpose of the two-day conference was to bring together drama experts and practitioners to inspire, inform, and upskill, and this aim was certainly met. Workshops were led by theatre companies such as Gecko, Lung, Paper Birds, and Vamos Theatre, as well as theatre practitioners and industry professionals. Working with cutting-edge theatre professionals and being invited to practically explore their practice, approaches to theatre, and sharing their toolkit for engaging and inspiring young people in Drama and Theatre was extremely energising and inspiring. This was an invaluable opportunity to work with these practitioners to practically understand their creative process and how it can be implemented in the classroom. I left the conference feeling inspired and eager to put the various strategies I learned over the past two days into action. Interwoven throughout the practical workshops has been the opportunity to network as well as have vital and important discussions about the importance of creativity and championing and pioneering the work that takes place in the Drama Classroom. We frequently work in small departments and, in some cases, on our own across the country. However, being in a space with like-minded creative individuals who shared a passion and belief in the work that we do, standing together in solidarity, was extremely refreshing. Thank you, National Theatre, for fueling my passion to further inspire, energise, and stimulate young people through drama and theatre. This conference has provided me with invaluable inspiration and professional development and I would encourage you all to get involved next year.
Jack Beswick is the Merseyside Champion for Open Drama UK.