: creative sessions
Ever wanted to grab a coffee with us and chat about theatre-making, producing, or running a company? Here’s your chance!
This isn’t a formal talk (although we’ll share a presentation with snapshots of our journey); it’s a relaxed, open space for meaningful conversation. Whether you’re curious about our experiences, thinking of starting your own company, or just looking to connect, we’d love to meet you.
Why We’re Doing This
As a tiny (mostly two-person) team, we don’t always get to have one-on-one meet-ups—but we love meeting new people! So, we’re opening our doors and creating a space to share, connect, and exchange ideas.
When we started out, so many doors felt closed—or didn’t even seem to exist. We want to change that. By sharing our experiences, lessons learned, and the realities of making theatre, we hope to help make the path a little more open for others.
So, grab a coffee (or tea!) and join us for a chat. Let’s talk theatre!
Saturday 5 April
Saturday 3 May
Saturday 7 June
10:30-12:30
Arrival with tea, coffee and refreshments from 10:30.
Rose Lipman Building
43 De Beauvoir Road
N1 5SQ
details
What We’ll Be Doing:
This is an informal and interactive gathering designed to spark conversations, share experiences, and exchange ideas about theatre-making, producing, and sustaining a creative practice.
You’ll:
- Gain Insights into Theatre-Making & Producing – Through an informal presentation, we’ll share lessons from our journey as actors turned producers and theatre-makers. We’ll talk about what worked, what didn’t, and what we’ve learned along the way—including insights into producing, fundraising, and balancing the art-making.
- Engage in Open Conversations – There’s no set script! Ask questions, share your own experiences, and take part in a relaxed, free-flowing discussion.
- Build Connections – Meet fellow theatre artists, translators, and creatives. Whether you’re looking for collaborators or just new perspectives, this is a space to connect.
Takeaways:
- Insights into navigating the industry as an independent artist / company
- Honest reflections on producing and theatre-making in a complex landscape
- A chance to meet and exchange ideas with fellow theatre-makers
Who It’s For:
This is for actors, theatre artists and makers, and creative practitioners (including translators!) who:
- Are curious about our work and approach.
- Are thinking about starting their own company or producing their own work.
- Want to connect, exchange ideas, and chat about theatre-making.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for fresh inspiration, you’re very welcome!
Where To Find Us
Rose Lipman Building
43 De Beauvoir Road
London
N1 5SQ
The Rose Lipman Building has step-free access.
You can find directions here (we’ll also send these to you in advance).
When It’s Happening
We have three sessions planned on the following dates:
- Saturday 5 April, 10:30-12:30
- Saturday 3 May, 10:30-12:30
- Saturday 7 June, 10:30-12:30
Schedule
- 10:30-11:00: Arrival, tea & coffee, and refreshments
- 11:00-12:00: FA Presentation & Q&A
- 12:00-12:30: Networking & Connecting
How Much It Costs
The Coffee Chats are free, but spaces are limited (capped at 10-12 participants to ensure meaningful exchange)—so booking is essential!
Get In Touch
If you have any questions, please first check out our FAQs below. If you still need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at team@foreignaffairs.org.uk.
faq - coffee chats
General
1. What will we be doing during the sessions?
We’ll begin with an informal presentation about our journey as artists and as a company. Afterward, we’ll open up the floor for a Q&A session—this is your chance to ask questions and connect with us and fellow colleagues throughout the day.
2. What is the schedule for the day?
The sessions run from 10:30 to 12:30, with a 10-minute break. We’ll start at 10:30 with time to arrive, grab refreshments, and settle in. At 12:00, we’ll wrap up with some networking and casual conversation until 12:30. For a detailed breakdown, please refer to the schedule above.
3. Where is the session taking place?
The sessions will take place at our home in Hackney, the Rose Lipman Building. We’ll be meeting in our studio or the old community hall, and please note that it can get a bit chilly when the temperatures drop, so we recommend bringing a warm layer to stay comfortable.
Who Can Attend?
1. Who is this session for?
This is for actors, theatre artists and makers, and creative practitioners (including translators!) who:
- Are curious about our work and approach.
- Are thinking about starting their own company or producing their own work.
- Want to connect, exchange ideas, and chat about theatre-making.
Practical Details
1. How can I sign up for the Coffee Chat?
Simply click the sign-up button on this page to register!
2. Is there any accessibility support for the session?
In the sign-up form, we’ll ask about any access requirements, and we’ll be in touch to ensure we can best support you during the workshop.
3. What if I arrive late?
We strongly encourage arriving on time so you can get the most out of the experience. If you’re running late, please let us know in advance if possible. We know things happen, so don’t stress—we’ll find a way to catch you up.
A few days before the session, we’ll send you details, including how to get in touch, so you know who to reach out to if needed.
4. Will food be provided?
We’ll have tea, coffee, fruit, and biscuits available. There are also plenty of nearby places where you can grab something before or after the session.
4. Why is this session free?
This session is part of a series funded by the TNL Community Fund and Arts Council England.
As an artist-led company, we’re dedicated to sharing our journey and helping others explore the world of theatre-making and translation. Thanks to the generous support of our funders, we’re able to offer these opportunities at no cost. In today’s climate, we want to ensure access to the arts is available to everyone. That said, if you’re able to, we’d greatly appreciate any donations to help us continue offering free, accessible sessions like this.
Attendance & Booking Policies
1. What if I can’t make it for the whole session? Can I still attend part of the session?
This session is designed as a complete experience, and we expect participants to commit to the entire session. If you’re unable to attend the full duration, we recommend waiting for a future opportunity when you can fully participate.
2. What if I can no longer make it?
We understand that plans change. If you need to cancel, please do so as soon as possible via the booking page or by emailing team@foreignaffairs.org.uk. This helps us offer your spot to someone on the waiting list.
3. What happens if I book but don’t show up?
As spaces are limited and the sessions are free, we ask for a firm commitment when booking. If you miss a session without canceling in advance, you may lose the opportunity to book future sessions this term. If you’ve booked multiple sessions, we may cancel your other bookings.
We often have a waiting list, so please let us know as soon as possible if you can’t attend, so someone else can take your place.
4. How many people can attend?
Our sessions have limited capacity, and spaces often fill up quickly. If a session is full, you can join the waiting list, and we’ll let you know if a spot becomes available.
What’s Next?
1. Is there any follow-up or further opportunities after the workshop?
Absolutely! We run a series of workshops throughout the year. You can find more information on upcoming sessions and workshops as part of our Spring/Summer Season 2025 here.
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