Description
How can we keep building a sector where everyone has the chance to take part and be seen? This panel brings together artists, producers and changemakers to explore how class shapes opportunity, access and visibility in the arts, while shining a light on the progress already being made.
We invited a panel of industry experts including Neil Griffiths, co-founder and Chief Executive of Arts Emergency; dance academics Rachel Krische and Laura Griffiths; and multidisciplinary theatre maker, Sahra Warsame. The discussion is facilitated by broadcaster and journalist Brenda Emmanus OBE.
Chapters:
00:23 - Introduction to the panel discussion and panelists
02:12 - How class shapes opportunity in the arts
08:47 - Rachel Krische and Laura Griffiths on recording working class stories in dance
14:24 - Sahra Warsame on working with institutions and engaging with communities
16:30 - Neil Griffiths on access programmes
21:32 - Radical ideas for improving access to the arts
26:55 - What can people in influential positions do now to improve access to thearts?
38:38 - Audience question - Advice for working class people who reach leadership roles and financial stability, who want to make a difference
42:23 - Audience question - Art as a catalyst for social change
46:15 - Audience question - Culture and value
48:36 - Panelist responses to the questions
54:06 - Conclusion
Arts & Class was filmed on location at Battersea Arts Centre, on 10 October as part of Dance Umbrella Festival 2025.
Learn more: https://danceumbrella.co.uk/event/arts-class/
Presented by Dance Umbrella in partnership with Battersea Arts Centre
Filmed and edited by Henry Curtis
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