13 December 2023
I'm very lucky to have caught up with producer, performer, PR specialist and magnificent weirdo, Jo Marsh.
With over 20 years' theatre experience in Australia and the UK, Jo now calls Wellington home. Over the weekend Jo added Wellington Theatre Award winner to her resume after receiving the accolade for A Leading Light in Accessible Theatre. I caught up with her at the Tāwhiri office to find out more about accessibility in the arts and her role as a champion for it.
What does accessibility mean in terms of the arts?
It is about removing barriers for audiences and arts practitioners to enjoy and thrive in and artistic environment. These barriers may come in a variety of forms be they physical, cognitive or financial. By removing these barriers we create an inclusive environment for all members of the community.
How did you get involved with accessibility?
I have always been interested and an advocate for accessibility in the arts. It is my lived experience as a disabled arts practitioner which led me into working more closely with communities to create more awareness of the needs for the community.
Why is it important?
It is important because practitioners and organisations should embark on their projects with accessibility in mind from the beginning of the process. Making sure they engage with communities well in advance, choosing venues that are accessible, or if that is not possible be aware that their audiences know of the barriers in place if they choose to see their show before hand.
If you could do one thing to make theatre more accessible, what would it be?
Wow only one thing? That the creators and venues keep access at the forefront of their minds when making art. Meet the challenges that make that access possible, and work with the communities to create the work.
You just won a Wellington Theatre Award for being A Leading Light in Accessible Theatre. Congratulations! What did you receive this for?
For directing a play written and performed by members of the disabled and neurodiverse community 5 Slices of Another Life – Development season and my contribution as Festival Coordinator for the Disabled Arts Festival this year.
Jo is currently working across accessibility and logistics on the 2024 Aotearoa New Zealand Festival of the Arts. You will find information about the Festival's Access events here.
