Our Artistic Director, Heidi Vaughan, recently joined a very special panel at the University of Bristol’s Bristol in Conversation: Stories from the Stage – a lively and heartfelt discussion on theatre, Shakespeare, and the role of creativity in uncertain times.
Sharing the stage with none other than Sir Gregory Doran – former Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company and, in Heidi’s words, “one of my all-time favourites” – and the “simply brilliant” Polly Davis, outgoing Executive Director at Ad Infinitum, the trio delved into what it means to keep theatre alive, needed and relevant today.
Sir Greg, hailed by the Financial Times as “one of the supreme Shakespearean directors of our era,” brought powerful insight to the table, while Polly shared inspiring examples of how Ad Infinitum is connecting deeply with communities through bold, physical storytelling. As for Heidi, she spoke passionately about the role inclusion and accessibility must play – not as an optional extra, but as the very foundation of any cultural organisation worth its salt.
“It was an unbelievable opportunity,” she said, “to speak frankly about the challenges we’re facing as an industry, but also to celebrate the enduring power of storytelling – and of theatre itself. These conversations matter, and everyone spoke with “striking candour and care”.”
Reflecting on the evening, Heidi described it as a “pinch-me moment” – the kind of energising exchange that reminds us why we do what we do.
The Bristol Alumni Blog summed it up beautifully:
“The panel also looked ahead, asking how we can sustain and grow theatre’s relevance for future generations. In doing so, they coined a powerful mantra – The 3 C’s: Curiosity, Collaboration, and Courage – the courage to be vulnerable, to take risks, and even to fail.”
We’re incredibly grateful to the University of Bristol team for hosting such an open and generous event. In a time when the world faces no shortage of challenges, moments like these – full of connection, truth, and shared passion – feel more vital than ever.
Posted on 23 July 2025
