I am the Artistic Director of This New Ground. This NewGround is an ambitious initiative to elevate the artistic talents of people with learning disabilities based in West London, UK.
As Founder and Artistic Director of This New Ground I am responsible for designing and delivering a range of exchange initiatives, centred around a core ensemble of 16 adults with learning disabilities and delivered through strategic partnerships with arts venues and organisations in and around West London. Most recently I have raised funds for a year-long program, The Big Exchange Project, currently underway, including devised theatre, design projects, songwriting workshops, a podcasts series, short film and employment opportunities for members of the collective.
This New Ground is the Associate Community Company at Bush Theatre and we are currently collaborating with Spare Tyre Theatre to develop a new performance piece for the programme later this year.
“Nathalie does fantastic work to nurture and support the people she works with. She understands the individual needs of each of the participants and encourages them to express themselves creatively.” – Holly Smith, Community Producer at Bush Theatre
As part of This New Ground’s Community Programme I run a weekly choir for adults with learning disabilities. Here we are in action!
“I feel like I get a choice and it gives me confidence to speak out. I like meeting new people and feeling connected.” – Martin, Member of This New Ground’s collective
In July 2018, I travelled to Geelong Australia to visit Back to Back Theatre, funded by the British Council and Arts Council England’s Artists International Development Fund. I was invited by Back to Back to participate as a visiting artist in their secondment programme – an opportunity to learn about the making and touring of large scale work, co-created by their ensemble of learning disabled artists. During my visit, I gained insights into Back to Back’s innovative approach and distinct company aesthetic. I had firsthand experience of the methods and strategies behind not only the work itself but the infrastructure of the company, forging relationships with leading practitioners in disability arts and gathering learnings that I believe will be crucial to my future work as an inclusive practitioner.
