I’m Ryan the Artistic Associate at Northern Stage. My role is wonderfully varied! I lead on curating the visiting programme for Stages 2 and 3, and I work very closely with the Artistic Director to shape and support our produced programme, which involves lots of reading and research. I also lead on our talent development work, ensuring that the support we offer is as useful as possible to artists in the region. I’m often out seeing shows or meeting artists in the North-East, doing everything I can to keep us connected to the region’s vibrant creative community.
Tell us a bit about your career path before landing at Northern Stage.
I’ve been working in the arts for 8 years variously as a director, playwright and dramaturg. I’m passionate about meaningful participation, and so a lot of my creative work was in cocreation processes. This interest in nurturing other people’s artistry led me to artist development work; I was a producer at Scottish Youth Theatre for two years where I developed projects and infrastructure for young artists 14-25 all across Scotland who wanted to stretch and utilise their creative skills.
What drew you to Northern Stage?
Like many artists in the region, I had a magical theatre experience at Northern Stage as a young person which flipped a switch and made me want to build a career chasing that magic. I always loved this building, and I wanted to be part of its future.
What do you like about the North East?
First place: the people. Second place: the coastline.
What do you enjoy in your typical day at Northern Stage?
I hope I never get over the buzz in the bar-cafe when people are enjoying a gossip, a drink, or one of our excellent pizzas before a show. It always makes my day.
What do you get up to outside of work?
When I’m not seeing theatre or reading, I am most often found in the kitchen or the Grainger Market. And – yes – occasionally in World HQ…