"Innovative, changeable, exciting and thought-provoking theatre floats my boat; but my deepest passion is seeing this sort of theatre become more accessible for everyone. A couple of years ago it was suggested to me that I put myself forward as a Trustee for Taking Flight. I was very flattered, I have always been a big supporter of the company which is firmly rooted at the forefront of creative accessibility in Wales. I wanted to be active in this sphere but I didn’t think I could be of any use. I really didn’t think I had anything to offer and certainly didn’t think I was up to making any sort of commitment due to my deteriorating health; I had already spent a year flat out on bedrest and lockdown had come along too. Taking Flight encouraged me to apply, and I was accepted. From the beginning I was guided, assured and encouraged to put in as little or as much effort/time as I was able. I didn’t have to travel to Cardiff, we meet via zoom and all our meetings are equally as accessible as Taking Flight productions. Even though Taking Flight is an expert, and other organisations regularly turn to us for advice, we are all always learning about accessibility. After a while on the board; I really started learning, building on my own communication skills, and I felt my contribution was appreciated, all for the benefit of a shared outcome.
Two years on and I am still incredibly excited to be working with such a knowledgeable and diverse team. Learning from the other Taking Flight trustees and from the staff team, gaining Strategic experience of how a project-based theatre company runs, has been good for me and a lot of amazing exciting ideas have been thrown around and important work done.
It has proven to be very helpful for me to be able to slot these experiences in with other community, local government and art work that I am involved in. As a trustee for any worthwhile charitable organisation, I think the role will easily give back as much as you put in. This is certainly been my experience so far with Taking Flight. It is an honour for me to be part of this organisation that always uses new, current, vibrant, genius and playful theatre to lead the way and set the benchmark for creative accessible work in Wales. I'm looking forward to working with new and existing board members to help set the direction of the company for the years to come. You don’t have to take my word for it; apply to join the board and find out for yourself."