Leicester's Curve was the stage for a successful conference examining how universities and theatres can work together to benefit researchers and drama students.
Academics and theatre professionals from all over the country were at the event which aimed to share ideas, showcase successes and support best practice for collaborative working.
The event, organised by De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) and Curve, also able to demonstrate the innovative work supported by DMU.
This included the Pop-Up Play project, in collaboration with The Spark Arts for Children. Using free open-source software, the technology allows children to "see themselves" on a digital TV screen where they are able to play and enhance their learning, creativity and language skills.
DMU's longstanding partnership with Curve was highlighted in a talk by the university's Tracy Cruickshank and Nicola Daniels and Suba Das, Curve's associate director. Drama students have access to placements, internships, workshops as well as audition, rehearse and perform at Curve.
Keynote speaker was Dr Farah Karim-Cooper, head of Higher Education and Research at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, who outlined challenges and opportunities of HE and theatres working together.
She said: "There are increasing expectations on today's PhD scholars to show impact, teaching experience and demonstrate public engagement. At the Globe, our students add to the knowledge base by interviewing actors after performances, working on stage, bringing together doctoral students and classical actors, which would not be possible without the partnership."
Posted on Monday 14 September 2015