No Boundaries 2017

No Boundaries has established a reputation for presenting questions and challenging ideas on the role of arts and culture, and the speakers and themes of the 2017 event certainly cemented that reputation. The conference format live-links two venues as one conference. This year, landmark Manchester arts hub HOME was partnered with Hull Truck Theatre, with the event forming part of the Hull UK City of Culture 2017 programme.  It was a pleasure and a privilege to co-host the event at Hull Truck.

But as the crowds dispersed I felt that more people should have the chance to hear the passion, humour and insights of those invited to share their views. And that shouldn’t just be for those who know about No Boundaries and weren’t able to attend, but also to those who might never have heard of it. 

So, this is one woman’s Top Nine must-hear sessions from No Boundaries 2017. Access the link at https://nb2017.org/homepage click on ‘watch’ and prepare to be affirmed, outraged, discomfited, over-joyed, inspired… (Each piece is about ten minutes long).

For passionate, articulate, thought-provoking perspectives on the politics of now, listen to:

Vicky Pryce (Economist) https://nb2017.org/#vickypryce

Munira Mizra (Writer, Broadcaster, Campaigner) https://nb2017.org/#muniramirza

To be moved, outraged and galvanised to act, listen to:

Jess Thom (Touretteshero) https://nb2017.org/#jessthom

Inua Ellams (Poet, Playwright, Performer) https://nb2017.org/#inuaellims

To be reassured that our great arts institutions have both the desire and leadership to change, listen to:

Frances Morris (Tate Modern) https://nb2017.org/#francesmorris

Rufus Norris (National Theatre) https://nb2017.org/#rufusnorris

And to reconnect to the driving forces of that change, listen to:

Evie Manning (Common Wealth) https://nb2017.org/#eviemanning

Claire Hodgson and Jamie Beddard (Diverse City/Extraordinary Bodies) https://nb2017.org/#clairehodgsonjamiebeddard

Finally – to remind ourselves who we are, where we come from, how we relate, listen to:

Honor Rhodes (Tavistock Relationship) https://nb2017.org/#honorrhodes