Creative Community
Directory
Read our monthly interviews with the people who make Plymouth’s cultural scene tick - artists, makers, community leaders, creatives.
Karl Meyer: Crafting a Brighter Future for Plymouth Music Zone
Last year was almost a bitterly tragic one for music programme director Karl Meyer and the team at Plymouth Music Zone (PMZ). In November, they were preparing to close the door on the beloved city charity after its funds almost ran dry. Look at them now!
In Conversation with Ray Rose: Shaping Plymouth's Live Music Scene
Ray Rose shares insights on Plymouth's evolving music scene, the role of grassroots venues, and advice for aspiring artists.
In Conversation with Dulcie Fenton: Empowering the Next Generation of Theatre-Makers
Dulcie Fenton champions young creatives at Barbican Theatre, leading ReBels Young Company and empowering emerging artists through paid, professional opportunities.
In Conversation: Arnet and Kieran from The Talk Shop
The day before a new exhibition at The Talk Shop, we met with Arnet Donkin, one of the directors of Cliik, and Kieran Walsh, their Arts Program Coordinator. As the space was being prepared for an exhibition by a local artist named Red, we discussed the impact that Cliik and The Talk Shop are having on North Stonehouse.
In Conversation with Ruth Way: Exploring Somatic Movement and the Power of Dance
Whether through research, teaching, or performance, Ruth’s message is clear: dance is for everyone, and movement has the power to transform lives.
From Plympton to Print Legend: In Conversation with Ben Challen or Bench Allen…
“Where sea meets moor meets forest meets me.”
We sat down with Plymouth-born printmaker Bench Allen to talk about his journey from Plympton to Jealous Gallery in London, and back home again for Print in Action 2025.
In Conversation: Cristina Varga – Finding Belonging, One Laugh at a Time
Cristina Varga’s hit show Close Enough returns to Theatre Royal Plymouth, blending comedy, music, and migrant stories. Born in Plymouth, it’s a powerful, funny night of heartfelt, homegrown theatre.
Beth Munro: Exploring Printmaking, Nature, and the Print in Action Festival
In this insightful conversation, we sit down with artist Beth Munro, the creative force behind the highly anticipated Print in Action Festival in Plymouth.
Print in Action: Jenny Gunning Leads the Way as Key Demonstrator at This Year’s Festival
Jenny Gunning, Master Printmaker and founder of Ironbridge Fine Arts, will be a key demonstrator at Print in Action at the end of April. She’ll showcase her expertise in various printmaking techniques, offering live demonstrations and insights into the craft’s history and future.
In Conversation with Francesca Hawkesworth: Artist, Curator, and Creative Driver
Francesca Hawkesworth is a Plymouth-based artist and organiser behind Native Makers and mural collective LOCI. Here, she shares how collaboration and community shape her creative journey and the city’s cultural scene.
In Conversation: Frankie Baldry, Plymouth Young City Laureate 2024-2025
Frankie’s role as Plymouth Young City Laureate has been about more than just writing poetry. It’s about uplifting young voices and representing the city at various events.
Darcey Bussell on Dance, Determination, and Giving Back
In our interview as part of the #LetsDance Campaign, Dame Darcey Bussell explores the deep impact of dance on physical and mental well-being, its role in fostering confidence and social connection, and the evolving landscape for aspiring dancers.
Maryam Pourian: A Passion for Dance and Community
Maryam Pourian’s journey in the dance world has taken her from Plymouth to stages across the globe, but her roots remain firmly in the community she loves. For the past 17 years, she has dedicated herself to nurturing the next generation of dancers across Devon and Cornwall.
Charlie Cornforth: Inspiring Movement, Building Community, and Revitalising Dance in Plymouth
As the founder of Crumbling Rocks Theatre, Charlie is passionate about making movement-based training accessible and fostering wellbeing through creative practice. In this article, he reflects on the resilience of Plymouth’s dance community, the challenges it faces, and the importance of collaboration in keeping dance at the heart of the city’s cultural identity.
Building a Dance Legacy: Jonny Hibbs Introduces Pugmill Youth Dance Company
In Conversation with Jonny Hibbs, co-founder of Pugmill Youth Dance Company—a brand-new initiative for young dancers aged 13-18 looking to take their training to the next level - launching at the end of March 2025. With diverse backgrounds in ballet and contemporary dance, Jonny and co-founder Max are bringing a fresh, challenging, and supportive approach to dance education in the city
In Conversation with Kelly Bryant
Kelly Bryant is a multidisciplinary artist whose work bridges film, installation, and performance. In a compelling conversation, she takes us through her journey as an artist and the inspirations behind one of her latest pieces.
In Conversation with Harriet Meadows: A Young Dancer's Journey in Plymouth and Beyond
Seventeen-year-old Harriet Meadows is a name to remember in the dance community of Plymouth. Her message to anyone considering getting involved in dance? "Go for it! It’s an amazing way to express yourself, make lifelong friends, and be part of a supportive community. No matter your background or experience level, dance is for everyone."
In Conversation: We are Far Flung C.I.C
Far Flung Dance Theatre is a vibrant, inclusive arts company in Plymouth, led by Disabled, Neurodivergent, Deaf, and non-disabled artists. Since 2015, they have created accessible workshops and performances, offering opportunities for creative expression and career development. In this article, Clair Sargeant, Co-Director of Far Flung, shares how the company blends dance with music, theatre, and visual arts to foster collaboration and inclusivity, making creativity accessible to all.
Aaron Walkley
My name is Aaron, and I founded INSTINCT in 2020. INSTINCT is a brand that champions emerging artists through collaborative streetwear. While directing INSTINCT, I work four days a week in an architecture practice as a Part 2 architectural assistant. My background is in architecture, and it influences how I run INSTINCT.
Joanna Cooke
Joanna Cooke is working her vocal chords hard to change all that. The singer-songwriter and keyboard player possesses a dynamic blues and soul-edged voice that seldom fails to take her fans on a soaring journey, be that on her self-penned records or via her soulful live performances.