Ah, the Association for Cultural Enterprises Conference.
Without doubt, without question, one of the finest gatherings of its kind, a beacon of inspiration in a world where the cultural sector is often left scrabbling for relevance, like a regional theatre trying to stage King Lear on a budget of three conkers and an old coat.
And, of course, huge congratulations to Fionnuala, Gordon, Tom and the entire team, who somehow managed to pull together a few days so fantastic, that for a brief moment, it almost seemed like the arts and culture might actually be valued in this country. Imagine!
Gabriela with all the theatrical gravitas of the West End gave Anthony a warm, generous introduction to his talk on day one, setting the tone for what was to follow.
Now, personal highlights? Well. Charlotte at The Box, delivering an unbelievably rousing talk on the frankly Herculean feat of moving catering in-house in two days. Two days! I’ve waited longer for a parcel from Evri. And yet, despite the logistical nightmare, it’s still offering a fantastic range. And, crucially, the best coffee in Plymouth!
And then David from Baker Richards, tackling the ever-thorny issue of income models for cathedrals. Because nothing says rock and roll like financial sustainability in ecclesiastical settings. And it was fascinating. Possibly even vital. Even if they are funded at a level that suggests the government thinks they should simply subsist on vibes alone.
It was, of course, also a joy to reconnect, to talk, to share in both deep discussion and absolute nonsense with the likes of Dan, Claire, Hugh, Lauren, Sarah and Ann And let’s be honest, that’s why we do this, isn’t it?
Final thanks to the legend/ flatmate/ nicest guy in the bizz Simon!
Keep an eye out for an article from Ant on digital culture. Right. Now, to recharge the culture batteries. Thanks all!
#culture #liverpool