Picture This Podcast - Episode 4, Season 1

Place and Performing Arts

Host: Shannon Conway Guest: Melanie Lewis

In this episode of The Picture This Podcast, we delve into the critical role of performance spaces in urban regeneration. Join us as we explore how integrating performance spaces into our built environment can act as a catalyst for economic and social transformation.

Our guest for today is Melanie Lewis, former Chief Executive of Shakespeare North Playhouse. Melanie brings a wealth of experience from her career spanning arts, culture, museums, and football. She takes us through the journey of Shakespeare North Playhouse, a purpose-built theatre in Prescot, and its profound impact on the local community.

We discuss the unique design of the cockpit-in-court theatre, its historical significance, and how it has revitalised Prescot, a town steeped in history but facing economic challenges. Melanie shares insights into the strategic objectives behind building the playhouse, the importance of making theatre accessible and relevant to all, and the broader implications for urban regeneration.

Key topics covered in this episode include: - The historical and cultural significance of the cockpit-in-court theatre. - The transformative impact of Shakespeare North Playhouse on Prescot's economy and community. - The role of performance spaces in fostering community cohesion and social mobility. - The challenges and strategies in making theatre accessible and relevant to diverse audiences. - The importance of equitable and inclusive design in public spaces. - Innovative approaches to funding and sustaining arts and culture institutions. - How performance and creative expression can serve as tools for education, social commentary, and political discourse.

Whether you're an urban planner, a theatre enthusiast, or someone interested in the intersection of culture and community development, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiring stories.

Guest Bio:

Melanie Lewis is the former Chief Executive of Shakespeare North Playhouse. With a career spanning various leadership roles in arts, culture, museums, and football, Melanie has been instrumental in bringing the vision of Shakespeare North Playhouse to life. Her dedication to community engagement and urban regeneration through the arts is evident in her work and the transformative impact of the playhouse on Prescot.

Subscribe and Stay Connected. Stay inspired and stay informed by subscribing to The Picture This Podcast. Share this episode with your friends and fellow enthusiasts, and let's keep picturing the possibilities together.

The Picture This Podcast is supported by Material Source, a studio and space where creative and practical minds collide.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.

Picture This Podcast - Episode 3, Season 1

Place and Food

Host: Shannon Conway Guest: Jemma Hynes

Join us in this episode of The Picture This Podcast as we delve into the fascinating world of food and its intricate relationship with the built environment. Our special guest, Jemma Hynes, a renowned food systems strategist from Fork Consultancy, shares her insights on how our surroundings can positively impact the food chain and our health.

Jemma brings over a decade of experience in transitioning food systems from farm to fork, aiming to improve health outcomes, economic stability, environmental sustainability, and social connectedness. In this engaging conversation, she discusses the roles different actors play within the food system and how they can collaborate to drive meaningful change.

We explore a variety of topics, including:

The definition and evolution of food in our society

The challenges and opportunities in urban and rural food environments

The impact of ultra-processed foods and how the built environment can address this issue

Innovative solutions for integrating food production into urban developments

The role of local authorities, universities, and other stakeholders in fostering a healthier food system

Whether you're a developer, urban planner, or simply passionate about food and sustainability, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice on how to create environments that support healthier food choices and community well-being.

Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Jemma Hynes on The Picture This Podcast!

Stay inspired and stay informed by subscribing to The Picture This Podcast. Share the word with your friends and fellow enthusiasts. Until next time, keep picturing the possibilities.

The Picture This Podcast is supported by Material Source, a studio and space where creative and practical minds collide.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.

Picture This Podcast - Episode 2, Season 1

Place and Neurodiversity

Host: Shannon Conway Guest: Stephanie Kyle

In this episode, we explore the intersection of neurodiversity and the built environment with Stephanie Kyle, an architect and inclusive design consultant. Stephanie delves into the importance of designing spaces that cater to neurodiverse individuals, covering sensory processing differences, the significance of colour chroma, and practical examples of inclusive design. Learn how thoughtful design can benefit everyone, from neurotypical to neurodivergent individuals, and discover actionable tips for creating more inclusive public and private spaces.

Podcast editing and production by CitySeventeen.