Michelle Carwardine-Palmer's Posts - National Theatre Wales Community2024-03-28T21:35:36ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmerhttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2986235664?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profiles/blog/feed?user=1dohnajihxjcg&xn_auth=nowe're here because we're here - A blog from my mate Iantag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2016-08-12:3152760:BlogPost:2560252016-08-12T10:27:06.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Ian and I met on the Isle of Arran 20+ years ago whilst leading Oxfordshire Duke of Edinburgh expedition groups over the midge ridden island. Since then we have lead many expeditions throughout the UK and shared great company, food, drink and stories. Even though Ian smashed a sheet of ice over my head for photographic effect on an expedition once, I would entrust my life with him! That is why he was the first person in my head when the idea of taking a group up Snowdon for this epic…</p>
<p>Ian and I met on the Isle of Arran 20+ years ago whilst leading Oxfordshire Duke of Edinburgh expedition groups over the midge ridden island. Since then we have lead many expeditions throughout the UK and shared great company, food, drink and stories. Even though Ian smashed a sheet of ice over my head for photographic effect on an expedition once, I would entrust my life with him! That is why he was the first person in my head when the idea of taking a group up Snowdon for this epic event came up and I was delighted that he trusted me on very little information and said "yes". </p>
<p>Below is Ian's blog from a completely non theatrical point of view!</p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999433988?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999433988?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<p><span>(Left to right: Gerald, Joey, Ian, Michelle, Loui, Phil) </span></p>
<p><span>It's not every day you go to a barbecue where you're cooked for by a professional Shakespearean actor. Traditionally barbecues take place outdoors, but the Welsh weather was on form. Gerald (Tyler, Stage Manager for the Snowdon part of <em>We're Here</em> <em>Because We're Here</em>) took this in his stride and cooked for all tastes in quality, in quantity, indoors. Along with my friend Michelle Carwardine-Palmer (Managing Director of National Theatre Wales), we had recently arrived at the cottage on the outskirts of Bangor where for the last few days the north Wales management team of the still-secret <em>We're Here Because We're Here</em> had been closeted. </span><br/><br/><span>This had all started for me a couple of weeks before when, in amongst the ads for pizza and cheap flights, I got a text from Michelle. It was cryptic. Cryptic not through intent, but because she didn't really know herself what she was asking me to get involved with. After the event Claire (Assistant Producer) sent this: "Thank you for taking a leap of faith and agreeing to support this endeavour when we didn't know who would be part of the group, where they would go or even what they would wear on their feet." </span><br/><br/><span>All I knew was that my role "probably" involved being responsible for the health and safety of a group of young cadets in authentic First World War uniforms plus several creative staff and some assistants, all of whom would be aiming to walk to the top of Snowdon whilst performing tableaux on the 100th anniversary of the first day of the Somme. I signed up immediately, my enthusiasm for involvement in such an exciting project overcoming any sense of uncertainty. And I trusted Michelle.</span><br/><br/><span>During the next two weeks planning was taken seriously, risk assessments were completed and the debate about devotion to realism in costume really did extend to whether it was sensible for the volunteers to wear First World War hobnail boots for a modern day ascent of Snowdon. In the end health, safety and pragmatism won and modern footwear was sported by all of the volunteers. One of them got horrendous blisters from their present day footwear. Maybe authenticity had it's revenge.</span><br/><br/></p>
<p>(The attention to detail was an extremely important part of the project)</p>
<p><span><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434224?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434224?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></span></p>
<div>Our party consisted of nine volunteers in role, Gerald Tyler (Stage <em>Manager),</em> Mark Douet (theatrical photographer), Phil Jacob (cadet instructor) plus assistant mountain leaders Michelle, Loui and Joey. My job was simple, to ensure that they were all safe on the mountain. My main concerns on the day were the weather forecast which included thunder, how the heavy wool costumes would perform and how the different elements of the process (creative tableaux, interaction with other people on the mountain) would work together to maximise the impact of the event. I needn't have worried. The volunteers were amazing, staying completely in role (not interacting with anyone) from the start as we walked through Llanberis until we got back to the bus at the end of the day. We decided to use the Llanberis track because of the scope to form tableaux for each passing train on the mountain railway; as we were still in Three Peaks season there were also plenty of people walking on the mountain. At one point on the day the reach of the UK-wide twitter feed for <i>we're here because we're here </i>had reached 22 million. <br/><br/>The weather behaved itself until we got to Clogwyn station where everything was thrown at us for a while. </div>
<div><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434290?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434290?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a><br/>Having reflected on the whole experience, it was a privilege to work with such creative people, to see the effort that went into costuming and dressing the volunteers, the thought that went into how to maximise the impact on the day, the professionalism of the volunteers who played the role of soldiers, to be involved with a commemorative event which focussed on the human cost whilst exposing powerfully the futility of war. It was humbling to observe the reactions of people to the tableaux that were formed as they passed by. And fantastic that despite the involvement of thousands of people the whole thing remained secret in this age of social media. </div>
<div>(Our day started in Bangor here)</div>
<div><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434769?profile=original" target="_self"></a></div>
<div><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434769?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999434769?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999435419?profile=original" target="_self"></a></div>
<div>(It ended here.......we were there, and they were remembered)</div>
<div><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999435419?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999435419?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></div>
<div><br/>More images from the day are available here: <a href="https://nationaltheatrewales.org/we-are-here" target="_blank">https://nationaltheatrewales.org/we-are-here</a></div>
<div>Blog by Ian Rodham</div>Happy New.....Artistic Director!tag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2016-01-06:3152760:BlogPost:2418412016-01-06T12:00:00.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>I am thrilled and honored to hail in the New Year with the news of our new Artistic Director and Chief Executive - Kully Thiarai, founding Artistic Director of Doncaster’s new £22m theatre, Cast.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" height="285" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999429452?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="428"></img></p>
<p>Everyone I know who has worked with Kully in the past – including on NTW’s The Soul Exchange, which she directed in January 2011 – will I’m sure be delighted to hear about her appointment, as she’s very well loved and respected within the UK’s theatre…</p>
<p>I am thrilled and honored to hail in the New Year with the news of our new Artistic Director and Chief Executive - Kully Thiarai, founding Artistic Director of Doncaster’s new £22m theatre, Cast.</p>
<p><img width="450" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999429452?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="428" class="align-center" height="285"/></p>
<p>Everyone I know who has worked with Kully in the past – including on NTW’s The Soul Exchange, which she directed in January 2011 – will I’m sure be delighted to hear about her appointment, as she’s very well loved and respected within the UK’s theatre community.</p>
<p></p>
<p>To give you a little information on Kully’s background, she has most recently <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/jan/01/doncaster-arts-revival-cast-theatre-venue" target="_blank">been credited</a> with putting Doncaster firmly on the UK’s cultural map and giving its artistic appetite an astonishing transformation with the success of Cast – the venue there that she’s been running since it was opened in September 2013, drawing 40,000 people through its doors in its first three months.</p>
<p>She already had, by then, an impressive background leading some of the UK’s best-loved theatre venues and producing companies, including Contact Theatre in Manchester, Leicester Haymarket Theatre, Theatre Writing Partnership Nottingham, and Red Ladder Theatre Company, Leeds.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Her directing credits for productions staged in Wales, across the UK and internationally over almost 30 years include everything from large-scale outdoor shows to intimate theatre performances, with a demonstrable emphasis on new writing, genuine diversity both on and off-stage, truly inclusive audience development and meaningful community engagement.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Some of her previous productions include Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin, Kes and Cinderella (all at Cast); United Colours of FrustrAsian (Cast and Southbank Centre); Obama The Mamba by Kevin Fegan, (nominated for two Manchester Theatre Awards – Best Play and Best Actor 2012); Mandala, a large-scale outdoor arts spectacular for the Cultural Olympiad; The Soul Exchange for NTW, Digital Tea Dance for Bangor University, Do We Ever See Grace? by Noël Greig, Salaam – a devised show made with young Muslim men, Beautiful Thing by Jonathan Harvey, Bogus Woman by Kay Adshead (performed in London, Australia and New York), The Fortune Club and Unsuitable Girls by Dolly Dhingra, Oscar Wilde’s The Happy Prince, Athol Fugard’s Master Harold and the Boys, Captured Live!, West Side Story, The Witches, Bollywood Jane, Plague of Innocence and Death of a Salesman.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Kully is also much in demand as an international keynote speaker on the arts, such as the recent No Boundaries conferences in 2015 (supported by ACE & British Council), as a consultant to the Secretary of State and the DCMS, on Supporting Excellence in the Arts and as a tutor for Hong Kong University’s Advanced Cultural Leadership Programme 2015.</p>
<p><br/>Kully will join National Theatre Wales from May, but will be popping into our office in Cardiff now and then to start getting to know us, and our amazing and talented nation.</p>
<p><br/>All here are very excited at the news, and look forward to welcoming Kully.</p>
<p><br/>Here’s to a tremendous 2016 for everyone</p>
<p> </p>Fundraising and Philanthropy trainingtag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2014-03-05:3152760:BlogPost:1887422014-03-05T18:09:48.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Arts fundraising training courses, March-June 2014</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>The Arts Fundraising and Philanthropy Programme offers people across the arts and cultural sector training, traineeships, coaching, and digital skills development to encourage innovative and effective practice in arts fundraising and encourage a more entrepreneurial approach to income generation.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There are 14 training courses happening across England between March and June 2014…</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Arts fundraising training courses, March-June 2014</b></p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p>The Arts Fundraising and Philanthropy Programme offers people across the arts and cultural sector training, traineeships, coaching, and digital skills development to encourage innovative and effective practice in arts fundraising and encourage a more entrepreneurial approach to income generation.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>There are 14 training courses happening across England between March and June 2014 including:</p>
<p></p>
<p><b>Effective Audience & Visitor Fundraising with David Dixon</b></p>
<p><b>Tue 11 March, 11am-5pm, Artsadmin, London</b></p>
<p><b>Wed 12 March, 11am-5pm, Birmingham Rep</b></p>
<p><b>Cost £95 + VAT</b></p>
<p>Have you ever considered that you already have a relationship with a large number of potential donors? Research shows that a good proportion of an arts organisation’s audiences and visitors would consider making a donation if asked. This practical workshop will give you the knowledge and skills to turn your visitors and audiences into serious long-term income.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Digital Fundraising Tools and Techniques with Sarah Gee</b></p>
<p><b>Fri 14 March, 10am-4pm, Whitechapel Gallery, London</b></p>
<p><b>Fri 11 April, 11am-5pm, Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art, Manchester</b></p>
<p><b>Cost £95 + VAT</b></p>
<p>Confused by crowdfunding? Troubled about text giving? Overwhelmed by the choices around online giving? This course will help you understand the digital fundraising tools available and how to integrate them into your fundraising effort.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>An Introduction to Digital Fundraising in the Arts with Howard Lake</b></p>
<p><b>Tue 18 March, 11am-5pm, Northern Ballet, Leeds</b></p>
<p><b>Cost £75 + VAT</b></p>
<p>Are you looking to utilise digital tools for fundraising? How do you go about optimising your website, e-marketing and social media in order to raise funds? This practical introductory course will give you the knowledge and skills to make meaningful changes in your organisation.</p>
<p><b> </b></p>
<p><b>Taking an Innovative Approach to Fundraising with Michelle Wright</b></p>
<p><b>Thu 24 April, 11am-5pm, Artsadmin, London</b></p>
<p><b>Tue 13 May, 11am-5pm, mac birmingham</b></p>
<p><b>Cost £150 + VAT</b></p>
<p>Need new ideas to generate income? With all arts organisations now required to fundraise for their survival, how will you stand out from the crowd? Join award-winning entrepreneur & fundraiser Michelle Wright for an intensive, inspirational and practical day that advocates a fresh approach to developing a fundraising strategy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Trustee Leadership with Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett</b></p>
<p><b>Wed 23 April, 2pm-5.30pm, Colston Hall, Bristol</b></p>
<p><b>Thu 8 May, 2pm-5.30pm, Opera North, Leeds</b></p>
<p><b>Mon 9 June, 2pm-5.30pm, mac birmingham</b></p>
<p><b>Cost £75 + VAT</b></p>
<p>This half-day seminar is an opportunity for leaders and Trustees from arts organisations to explore ways in which trustees can lead and support their organisation’s fundraising strategies.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.artsfundraising.org.uk/">www.artsfundraising.org.uk</a> for more details and to book your places. There are group discounts and multi-buy offers available. You can also search for other training courses taking place between now and June across England.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Alternatively, please contact the Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy team on 020 7247 1430.</p>Training Opportunity - Minute Takingtag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-11-27:3152760:BlogPost:1816222013-11-27T14:47:02.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Hi All,</p>
<p>We will be running a Minute Taking training course on Friday 17th January 2014, here at the NTW Office between 9.30am and 4pm. We have a limited number of spaces left, so first come first in. Cost will be £50 per person (to keep costs down lunch will not be provided but tea, coffee, biscuits, fruit to keep you going during the course will be).</p>
<p>If you are interested in joining us for the day then contact Hannah at info@nationaltheatrewales.org</p>
<p>The course will be…</p>
<p>Hi All,</p>
<p>We will be running a Minute Taking training course on Friday 17th January 2014, here at the NTW Office between 9.30am and 4pm. We have a limited number of spaces left, so first come first in. Cost will be £50 per person (to keep costs down lunch will not be provided but tea, coffee, biscuits, fruit to keep you going during the course will be).</p>
<p>If you are interested in joining us for the day then contact Hannah at info@nationaltheatrewales.org</p>
<p>The course will be delivered by an external trainer and will include areas such as;</p>
<p><b>Meetings</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Roles and Responsibilities;</li>
<li>Relationship with the Chair;</li>
<li>Governing Documents, Terms of Reference and Attendance Registers.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Preparation</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Agenda-setting;</li>
<li>Personal preparation;</li>
<li>The meeting cycle.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Minutes</b></p>
<ul>
<li>Lay-out;</li>
<li>Writing styles;</li>
<li>Freedom of Information Act;</li>
<li>The minutes cycle.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Note-taking</b></p>
<ul>
<li>What to listen for;</li>
<li>Using templates, summaries and bubble maps and mind maps;</li>
<li>Writing quickly.</li>
</ul>
<p><b>Learning Outcomes</b></p>
<p>At the end of the course, participants will be able to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Identify the key tasks, roles and responsibilities necessary for effective meetings;</li>
<li>Describe the meeting and minute cycles;</li>
<li>Identify and apply an appropriate format for the agenda and minutes of different types of meetings;</li>
<li>Apply a range of note-taking techniques.</li>
</ul>Silly Kings GBBO - The Ungulate!tag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-11-26:3152760:BlogPost:1814092013-11-26T12:58:16.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>So last night was my test run for a festive biscuit recipe and being Silly Kings and all, it had to be an ungulate.</p>
<p>What's an ungulate I hear you ask? Well if you haven't already you should listen to this for an explanation <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj1HFfGt0HI" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj1HFfGt0HI</a></p>
<p>Or you can take a look at the picture evidence of my attempt at making reindeer biscuits. Some fine tuning still needs to be done, but not…</p>
<p>So last night was my test run for a festive biscuit recipe and being Silly Kings and all, it had to be an ungulate.</p>
<p>What's an ungulate I hear you ask? Well if you haven't already you should listen to this for an explanation <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj1HFfGt0HI" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dj1HFfGt0HI</a></p>
<p>Or you can take a look at the picture evidence of my attempt at making reindeer biscuits. Some fine tuning still needs to be done, but not too shabby an effort I thought. Staff are tucking in to them and seem happy with the outcome.</p>
<p>Perhaps this could be the start of more festive ungulate related baking....let me know how you get on with yours</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999386951?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999386951?profile=original" width="640" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999387417?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999387417?profile=original" width="640" class="align-full"/></a></p>Do You Want to Work With National Theatre Wales?tag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-09-11:3152760:BlogPost:1738972013-09-11T14:34:48.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>We are...............</p>
<p>Radical</p>
<p>Innovative</p>
<p>Engaged</p>
<p>International</p>
<p>Dynamic</p>
<p></p>
<p>In just a few years National Theatre Wales has already picked up some pretty good descriptions of the impact we have made so far. If you are inspired by the company and want to contribute to making it even more successful then take a look at our <a href="http://www.nationaltheatrewales.org/jobs" target="_blank">Company Co-ordinator's job description</a>. The application…</p>
<p>We are...............</p>
<p>Radical</p>
<p>Innovative</p>
<p>Engaged</p>
<p>International</p>
<p>Dynamic</p>
<p></p>
<p>In just a few years National Theatre Wales has already picked up some pretty good descriptions of the impact we have made so far. If you are inspired by the company and want to contribute to making it even more successful then take a look at our <a href="http://www.nationaltheatrewales.org/jobs" target="_blank">Company Co-ordinator's job description</a>. The application deadline is Wednesday 2nd October and the interviews will take place in Cardiff on Thursday 17th October.</p>
<p></p>
<p>It is a pretty critical post in terms of ensuring that the whole company, its staff and associates are all able to work effectively and efficiently. No pressure, but we all rely on you being able to help us do our jobs! From making sure the tea and coffee supplies are plentiful (believe me, the NTW world will stop spinning if we are bereft of a good hot beverage.....that's it, our secret/weakness is out), to IT troubleshooting and that innovative working practice is embraced, to project managing company operations when we are up a mountain or on an island's village hall.</p>
<p></p>
<p>I'll be honest, it may not always be a glamorous role but it is ESSENTIAL. I can guarantee cake though and a cracking team of people to work with. So if the post appeals to you we would love to hear from you. Of if you know of anyone else who may fit the bill then do pass it on to them too.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Might see you on the 17th October then.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Best wishes</p>
<p></p>
<p>Michelle</p>NTW Office - Holyheadtag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-06-12:3152760:BlogPost:1593722013-06-12T15:18:42.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Following on from Mike's Week One blog........it is now half way through week two in the NTW Holyhead Office. The weather has taken a turn for the worst...not sure Sweet Dreams is going to be selling many Knickerbocker Glories this week - even at £3.50. Julia, however, has managed to bag herself two great charity shop purchases though and the Internet Cafe does a great latte so all is well.</p>
<p>Anyway, rather than writing about it I thought you might like a photo montage of the sights…</p>
<p>Following on from Mike's Week One blog........it is now half way through week two in the NTW Holyhead Office. The weather has taken a turn for the worst...not sure Sweet Dreams is going to be selling many Knickerbocker Glories this week - even at £3.50. Julia, however, has managed to bag herself two great charity shop purchases though and the Internet Cafe does a great latte so all is well.</p>
<p>Anyway, rather than writing about it I thought you might like a photo montage of the sights and sounds of our world here at the northern most point of Wales (joint effort by my good self and Jen Thornton).......</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999381062?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999381062?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Another Step Towards our Green Prismtag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-05-14:3152760:BlogPost:1568262013-05-14T17:18:22.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>So we were successful in securing a small grant from Keep Cardiff Moving which meant we could purchase a couple of company bikes (insert joke here) and kit to get us in and around Cardiff in an attempt to ween ourselves off taxi journeys dependency and to get fit.</p>
<p>All the kit turned up last week and the lovely guys from The Bike Shed gave us a demonstration. Next on the list is to get some training...oh, and to use them (Mike has already put them to the text last week to and from the…</p>
<p>So we were successful in securing a small grant from Keep Cardiff Moving which meant we could purchase a couple of company bikes (insert joke here) and kit to get us in and around Cardiff in an attempt to ween ourselves off taxi journeys dependency and to get fit.</p>
<p>All the kit turned up last week and the lovely guys from The Bike Shed gave us a demonstration. Next on the list is to get some training...oh, and to use them (Mike has already put them to the text last week to and from the office and WMC where we were doing some show research & development). Not bad for the first week<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999377093?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999377093?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Government Businesstag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-04-03:3152760:BlogPost:1523922013-04-03T10:51:13.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
Suited and booted I headed to the Welsh Government offices in Akasaka, Tokyo today and met Mr Takeharu (Tiger) Nakagima, Ms Yoko Kobori and Mr Goro Okada to talk about our production. Ms Kobori was very impressed with the Japanese cast for the production - many of whom are well known television actors here in Japan.<br />
<br />
We had a wonderful conversation about Wales and made many connections with locations and people - Tiger regularly runs along the Cardiff Bay barage, touches the Penarth rocks and…
Suited and booted I headed to the Welsh Government offices in Akasaka, Tokyo today and met Mr Takeharu (Tiger) Nakagima, Ms Yoko Kobori and Mr Goro Okada to talk about our production. Ms Kobori was very impressed with the Japanese cast for the production - many of whom are well known television actors here in Japan.<br />
<br />
We had a wonderful conversation about Wales and made many connections with locations and people - Tiger regularly runs along the Cardiff Bay barage, touches the Penarth rocks and then heads back in to The city. In June there will be a delegation from Cardiff (including the Minister Edwina Hart)joining the Tokyo team and the Welsh rugby team too, so lots of cultural exchanges throughout the year.<br />
<br />
On Opening Night we hope to be joined by some of the Clwb Hiraeth members (which means Longing) - members are previous executives of Japanese companies in Wales, such as Panasonic in Pentwyn and Sony in Brigend (42 Japanese companies in total have businesses in Wales). One of our guests was the Chairman of Clwb Hiraeth and was one of the first Japanese businessmen to work in Wales in 1972 and his daughter was born in Cardiff hospital. We also hope that some of the St David's Society can join us too.<br />
<br />
Today I have also received email responses from the Tokyo Metropolitan theatre and the Japan Foundation so hope to meet them too. The new Kabuki Theatre also reopened yesterday so I hope to visit that (I think tickets may be scarce but will try).<br />
<br />
Tonight it is a meal with John, Alan, Abdul and Matt so I hope their local knowledge will lead to a pucker Japanese cuisine experience rather than the cop out I managed last night, pizza! I blame jet lag for my lack of adventure.The Final Countdown - The Opportunity of Efficiencytag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-03-31:3152760:BlogPost:1525212013-03-31T15:08:55.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Another busy week of pre-Japan preparation - I have practiced with my chop sticks with some Sushi; watched an amazing performance by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales - conducted by the fantastic Taaaki Otaka (who, in 2010 became Artistic Director of the New National Theatre Tokyo) with brilliant guest solo performances from Adam Walker, Anthony Marwood and Lawrence Power. WMC kindly invited me to their interval reception where I also met the CEO of Sony, MD of Panasonic and Minister…</p>
<p>Another busy week of pre-Japan preparation - I have practiced with my chop sticks with some Sushi; watched an amazing performance by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales - conducted by the fantastic Taaaki Otaka (who, in 2010 became Artistic Director of the New National Theatre Tokyo) with brilliant guest solo performances from Adam Walker, Anthony Marwood and Lawrence Power. WMC kindly invited me to their interval reception where I also met the CEO of Sony, MD of Panasonic and Minister Edwina Hart - all of whom were very complimentary of our future endeavours and are excited to hear all about it when we return. Since Thursday I have also attempted to adjust to Japan time by waking up at 4am!!! Friday evening I went to see Sutra by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and the Shaolin Temple monks and design by Antony Gormley - another brilliant evening of 'Bullet Proof Monk, meets Jenga, meets The Cube' extravaganza....I loved it. And finally a few hours of wrapping gifts and then trying to find somewhere in the suitcase to pack them in. Today I have been scrolling through Google Maps and walking the digital streets of Tokyo so I know whether to turn left or right out of the tube station to get to the apartment - it does freak me out that you can walk in to a shop on these things....how do they do that?!! So far I have noticed a number of American fast food chains and lots of Tokyo residents wearing face masks. Hopefully I shall make it in one piece. </p>
<p>Some questions for you all;</p>
<p>What is the one thing we should do whilst in Tokyo/Japan?</p>
<p>What is the one thing we should eat?</p>
<p>What is the one thing we should not eat?</p>
<p>Are there any cultural events we should go to?</p>
<p>Who should we meet?</p>
<p>What do you want to know while we are out there?</p>
<p></p>
<p>Next posting will be from the other side of this world, until then Ogenki de</p>
<p>Michelle</p>Preparations for The Opportunity of Efficiency & Japanese Etiquettetag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-03-21:3152760:BlogPost:1512142013-03-21T18:52:50.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>So alongside the making and presenting of a show I have been busy making sure we are connecting with the right people and nurturing relationships both here in Wales/UK and Japan.</p>
<p>To date, to name a few, I have had;</p>
<ul>
<li>Meetings with Welsh Assembly Government, Arts Council Wales, Wales Millennium Centre, BBC Wales and some movers and shakers in the Japan/Wales business network</li>
<li>E-mail correspondence with British Council (Wales, London and Tokyo), New National Theatre…</li>
</ul>
<p>So alongside the making and presenting of a show I have been busy making sure we are connecting with the right people and nurturing relationships both here in Wales/UK and Japan.</p>
<p>To date, to name a few, I have had;</p>
<ul>
<li>Meetings with Welsh Assembly Government, Arts Council Wales, Wales Millennium Centre, BBC Wales and some movers and shakers in the Japan/Wales business network</li>
<li>E-mail correspondence with British Council (Wales, London and Tokyo), New National Theatre Tokyo, British Embassy (London and Tokyo), St David's Society (Tokyo and Kansai), Japan Society, Welsh Government in Tokyo, Welsh Culture Ministers, Clwyb Hyreth, Japan Foundation, Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation, Nippon Foundation, Daiwa Foundation & their Scholars, Japan-British Society, School of Oriental & African Studies, Japan English Teachers Scheme, TPAM, Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, Setagoya Public Theatre and some Japanese creatives who are well connected theatre makers</li>
</ul>
<p>It's been busy as well as a slow process with the time delay and trying to reach the right people. Japanese business étiquette means that you have to be introduced to people rather than contacting 'out of the blue'.</p>
<p>Other business etiquette advice has included; accepting a business card with both hands and offer yours with both hands. You must also give the business card due respect and take in the information at leisure - DO NOT shove it in your back pocket or bag as soon as you have received it - this is disrespectful. A small nod on acceptance of a business card is also advisable.</p>
<p>The act of gift giving is also a big deal in Japan. It is not the value of the gift, it is the act of giving and that the gift must be wrapped to eliminate any awkwardness. The wrapping is the most important bit of the gift. If you receive a gift you are not expected to open it there and then....take it home.</p>
<p>Whilst the Japanese business world is becoming more diverse I have also been told not to be offended if I am expected to pour the drinks at a reception or a meeting. Personally I don't see an issue with this so long as I get some and in my experience if you have a direct hold on the bottle you're more likely to get a decent measure! So happy all round I say.</p>
<p>Also, don't blow your nose on a handkerchief...use a disposable tissue, eat noodles and noisily as you can and make sure your socks are robust.</p>
<p>Sayonara for now</p>The Art of Asking - another inspiring talk from TEDtag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-03-07:3152760:BlogPost:1486992013-03-07T11:35:43.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Click on the link below</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/amanda_palmer_the_art_of_asking.html">http://www.ted.com/talks/amanda_palmer_the_art_of_asking.html</a></p>
<p>Click on the link below</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/amanda_palmer_the_art_of_asking.html">http://www.ted.com/talks/amanda_palmer_the_art_of_asking.html</a></p>How much is it to put on a gig?tag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-02-26:3152760:BlogPost:1480082013-02-26T18:18:24.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>If you ever wondered how much money is (or isn't made) when putting on a gig, have a read of the following blog to give you an idea - very insightful.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://fishheadsclub.com/2013/01/29/touring/" target="_blank">http://fishheadsclub.com/2013/01/29/touring/</a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>If you ever wondered how much money is (or isn't made) when putting on a gig, have a read of the following blog to give you an idea - very insightful.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://fishheadsclub.com/2013/01/29/touring/" target="_blank">http://fishheadsclub.com/2013/01/29/touring/</a></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Parc & Dare Site Visit - Treorchy Residency (Autumn 2013)tag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-02-26:3152760:BlogPost:1480062013-02-26T18:15:37.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>While in the thick of the Butetown residency for De Gabay quite a lot of the team went to Treorchy to the Parc & Dare last Wednesday to get stuck in to conversations about our residency there in the autumn this year.</p>
<p>A great team of people work for RCT theatres - Geoff Cripps, Artistic Director, treated us all to homemade Welsh cakes and I bumped in to a mate from Trinity University, Simon Davey, who is now the Parc & Dare Theatre Manager - so we will have a lot to catch up on…</p>
<p>While in the thick of the Butetown residency for De Gabay quite a lot of the team went to Treorchy to the Parc & Dare last Wednesday to get stuck in to conversations about our residency there in the autumn this year.</p>
<p>A great team of people work for RCT theatres - Geoff Cripps, Artistic Director, treated us all to homemade Welsh cakes and I bumped in to a mate from Trinity University, Simon Davey, who is now the Parc & Dare Theatre Manager - so we will have a lot to catch up on over the next few months.</p>
<p>Geoff and Simon also gave Lucy and I a tour of the building - a beautiful auditorium and great spaces which NTW can populate during our time with the P&D team. One of the highlights has to be the model railway group who are in the eaves of the theatre but I'm not sure I am meant to tell you about that - I think it's Treorchy's best kept secret, whoops.</p>
<p>The start of a very exciting relationship. More to follow as the weeks pass by........<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999380850?profile=original" target="_self"><br/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999381412?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2999381412?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>Butetown Residency - De Gabaytag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2013-02-18:3152760:BlogPost:1468382013-02-18T14:00:46.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Well, we are in to our second week of being 'resident' in Butetown so if 30 Castle Arcade is too far or imposing to come in and say hello then do drop in to the Cardiff City Housing Association building on Loudoun Square - we are on the first floor in the Media Suite (there is tea, cake and biscuits!). Tomorrow might be good as I am thinking of baking some muffins - the Team meeting in the morning may eat most of them but there should be some left. Or there is always Togayo restaurant - I…</p>
<p>Well, we are in to our second week of being 'resident' in Butetown so if 30 Castle Arcade is too far or imposing to come in and say hello then do drop in to the Cardiff City Housing Association building on Loudoun Square - we are on the first floor in the Media Suite (there is tea, cake and biscuits!). Tomorrow might be good as I am thinking of baking some muffins - the Team meeting in the morning may eat most of them but there should be some left. Or there is always Togayo restaurant - I had the most amazing Somali food there last week.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Come and find out more about De Gabay, which culminates in a day long performance on Sunday 3rd March; How you can get involved with National Theatre Wales; Ask about future productions and events or just have a chat. We are here for the next two weeks, Monday to Friday, 10m-6pm.</p>
<p></p>
<p>I am currently sat on my own, listening the the Cerys Matthews BBC Radio 6 show from Sunday which featured two of our amazing poets from De Gabay - play it, there's some fantastic music featured as well. They were also on the Culture Show on Wednesday night too - you can play that again as well on More 4.</p>
<p></p>
<p>More later from Loudoun Square......</p>Finance and Administration Work Placementstag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2012-10-12:3152760:BlogPost:1364812012-10-12T13:30:35.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Are you interested in theatre administration & finance?</p>
<p></p>
<p>National Theatre Wales are seeking two individuals with a passion for either finance or administration to join us on a three month placement, of one day a week, between January and April 2013.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We are offering one placement in each area during this period and they will cover.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Finance:</p>
<p>Understanding the mechanism of invoice management</p>
<p>Experience of cash…</p>
<p>Are you interested in theatre administration & finance?</p>
<p></p>
<p>National Theatre Wales are seeking two individuals with a passion for either finance or administration to join us on a three month placement, of one day a week, between January and April 2013.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>We are offering one placement in each area during this period and they will cover.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Finance:</p>
<p>Understanding the mechanism of invoice management</p>
<p>Experience of cash handling</p>
<p>Insight into company management accounts</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Administration:</p>
<p>Understanding of the NTW office systems</p>
<p>Experience of premises and utility management</p>
<p>Providing company support</p>
<p>Insight into personnel management</p>
<p> </p>
<p>If you are interested please send us your CV with a covering letter explaining why this appeals to you & how you think you will benefit to our Head of Collaboration: <a href="mailto:devindadesilva@nationaltheatrewales.org">devindadesilva@nationaltheatrewales.org</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>This is a voluntary role but reasonable expenses will be paid.</p>
<p>The deadline is Monday 29th October 2012.</p>
<p> </p>My first week at National Theatre Walestag:community.nationaltheatrewales.org,2012-08-10:3152760:BlogPost:1299732012-08-10T16:07:00.000ZMichelle Carwardine-Palmerhttps://community.nationaltheatrewales.org/profile/MichelleCarwardinePalmer
<p>Hello everyone,</p>
<p>I have already had the most amazing time with the lovely staff at National Theatre Wales. I have read many documents and learnt many new things digital, photocopier related and how to load a staple gun.</p>
<p>I have also had my first experience of signing off an invoice for Emergency Tree Rescue Training!</p>
<p>Not only have I had the pleasure of all this but I also experienced the best Shakespearean production in many, many years at Hangar 858 last night. I am so…</p>
<p>Hello everyone,</p>
<p>I have already had the most amazing time with the lovely staff at National Theatre Wales. I have read many documents and learnt many new things digital, photocopier related and how to load a staple gun.</p>
<p>I have also had my first experience of signing off an invoice for Emergency Tree Rescue Training!</p>
<p>Not only have I had the pleasure of all this but I also experienced the best Shakespearean production in many, many years at Hangar 858 last night. I am so privileged to be working with such a wonderful and innovative company - and this is only week one.</p>
<p>Michelle</p>