Reflecting on Amateur Theatre: 17th September, 2016.

Research is almost always a collaboration, and new knowledge is generated as part of a dialogue. Bringing together cultural commentators, researchers and theatre professionals with amateur theatre-makers was designed to further discussions and create new opportunities for dialogue rather than 'disseminate' research findings. We were delighted to welcome so many people to the day with a wide range of interests across and beyond the amateur sector.

Discussions circled around the changing cultural climate in which theatre is made, the relationship between amateur theatre and place-making, the ways in which amateur theatre has defined the national theatre canon.

Over 100 people gathered at Royal Holloway, University of London to discuss our research on amateur theatre. The event was designed to encourage as much discussion as possible, and began with a short introduction to our research projects.

Simon Sladen, Senior Curator for Modern and Contemporary Performance at the V&A, offered insights into archiving for the future.

Nadine Holdsworth, University of Warwick, presented some of the key findings on the history and heritage of amateur theatre.

Helen Nicholson, Royal Holloway, University of London spoke about the changing relationship between amateur theatre, place-making and work.

Jane Milling, University of Exeter commented on the aesthetics of amateur theatre, and how it contributes to shaping repertoires.