Our Agent for Change Jamie Beddard recently attended the Stage Sight Conference in London, Stage Sight is an initiative to create an off stage workforce that is more reflective of society today, inclusive of ethnicity, class and disability. Take a read of Jamie’s experience of the day…

I’ve never been on a panel with three other wheelchair users, four must be some kind of record!

We were at the Stage Sight conference addressing the lack of diversity in the off stage and backstage workforce. There has been a struggle for onstage representation, inclusion and access for many years, and the debate is now widening its focus to address all areas of the performing arts sector. Ramps on the Moon has been very influential in kick-starting this broader emphasis with the employment and development of creative practitioners across the theatrical disciplines; lighting, sound, stage management and props. We were also joined on the panel by David Phillips, Head of Production at the New Wolsey, and Allison Pottinger, Project Manager, Technical Theatre BSL, so many bases were covered. The conference was at the Central School of Speech and Drama and was an opportunity to impress upon drama schools and training providers the importance of creating opportunities and pipelines for Deaf and disabled practitioners at all levels and in all roles of the performing arts. Also, gratifying to connect up with Stage Sight, who seek inclusion across ethnicity, class and disability. It is important that we all are working together to address the barriers faced by all.