Director/Facilitator

Start Date: September 2024

Fee: £2000 - inclusive of expenses and VAT

Deadline to apply: 11pm | Thursday 22nd August 2024

Performance date: Sunday 27th October

Introduction 

Nos Kalan Gwav is an annual celebration organised by intoBodmin. Created initially as a Halloween parade in 2021 through a participatory arts project,  BodMaxx, the event has evolved over the last three years, with 2023 taking on the Cornish celebration that coincides with Halloween – Nos Kalan Gwav. Traditionally observed on the night of October 31st and the following day. In the Cornish language, "Kalan Gwav" means "first day of winter," marking the end of summer and the beginning of the winter season.

As part of the parade, a short performance was created using the characters of the Sun King and the Moon Queen who exchange the power of the seasons. The performance included lanterns, music and costume. The following year, this was developed further with the original artist/director. In 2023, the performance was given over to the group of local performers, who developed it further and it was played as a section of the overall celebration.

Through evaluation and consultation with the members of the group, we would like to employ an experienced director who can help to develop the ideas explored in previous years and create a solid piece of work that can be replicated and performed annually, with minimal rehearsal, props and costumes.

What is involved?

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We are seeking a creative practitioner(s) to collaborate with local amateur performers to create a short (20 minute max), scripted performance.

This performance will be inspired by characters and themes the community group have formed in previous years. It will celebrate the changing of the seasons, incorporating some previously developed characters and traditions associated with Nos Kalan Gwav. It will become a key, traditional element of the annual Bodmin Nos Kalan Gwav event.

This brief is to deliver a family friendly script and performance that can be showcased by local amateur performers on the 2nd November as a key element of the Nos Kalan Gwav event.

Aims of this brief:

·       To collaborate with community performers to develop a script that captures the essence of Nos Kalan Gwav.

·       To ensure the script is engaging, reflective of Cornish culture and suitable for annual repetition.

·       To work closely and collaboratively with amateur performers who have participated in previous Nos Kalan Gwav events and to build on previous years' performances, enhancing and integrating their elements into the new script.

·       To encourage and celebrate new members of the community that may wish to take part and perform in the event.

·       To organise and lead rehearsals, creating an inclusive and encouraging environment.

·       To provide direction and feedback to performers, helping them refine their skills and confidence.

·       To oversee the staging of the performance on the day of the event, ensuring smooth execution.

·       To collaborate with intoBodmin’s creative coordinator for any logistical support required.

·       To create a fun and positive environment for all! Creating space for professional development but also as an opportunity for members of the community to socialise and express themselves creatively in a safe and supportive environment.

What are we looking for?

·       Proven experience in directing community or co-created performances and ability to write engaging scripts.

·       Ability to develop a culturally reflective performance suitable for annual repetition.

·       Strong collaborative skills, working closely with amateur performers and community members.

·       An appreciation and understanding of Cornish culture and traditions.

·       Leadership and organisational skills for organising rehearsals and overseeing performance staging.

·       Ability to provide constructive direction and feedback to performers.

·       Inclusive and supportive approach, encouraging new community members to participate.

·       Commitment to creating a positive, fun, and safe environment for creative expression and social interaction.

·       Creative and innovative, able to develop engaging performance elements while maintaining traditions.

·       Excellent communication skills for effective interaction with performers and intoBodmin team.

·       Passion for community arts and commitment to enhancing community cohesion and local pride.

Is this you and are you interested?