On 21^st September, ITC members from across the UK came together at the Marylebone Theatre for our annual conference, The Art of Good Employment. The day was packed with thought-provoking discussions, practical learning and challenging questions about how we create workplaces where people can thrive. 

For me, it isn’t a single session that stood out, but it was the feeling in the room. 

There was a real sense of joy throughout the day. Joy in being together, joy in learning from one another and joy in reconnecting with colleagues and peers who understand both the opportunities and challenges of working in independent theatre. 

Having spent much of the last year supporting members through the Legal & IR advice service here at ITC, it was particularly special to meet so many people in person. Many of the conversations I have every week happen over the phone, via Teams or by email. While those conversations are often incredibly rewarding, there is something different about talking to someone face-to-face, hearing about people’s work and making connections beyond the issue that first brought them into contact with ITC. 

The conference theme, The Art of Good Employment, felt particularly timely in light of the array of employment law changes that are happening. Across the day we explored what it means to be a good employer in a rapidly changing environment. Sessions covered topics including neurodiversity, AI in the creative industry, anti-racism, access and reasonable adjustments, coaching skills, managing difficult conversations, dispute resolution and the role of boards as employers. The discussions were practical, honest and challenged thinking, but were grounded in a shared desire to create fairer and more sustainable workplaces across our sector. 

What struck me most was the willingness of people to share and get involved in the discussion. Whether speaking from a panel, contributing to a breakout discussion or chatting over coffee, members were generous with their experiences, ideas and questions. There was no sense that anyone had all the answers. Instead, there was a recognition that we learn best when we learn together. 

Independent theatre is built on collaboration and that spirit was evident throughout the day. People were making introductions, swapping experiences, sharing resources and discovering common challenges.  

In a sector that can sometimes feel stretched, uncertain or isolated, being in a room full of people committed to supporting one another was genuinely energising. It was a reminder that while organisations may face different challenges, many are navigating similar questions about leadership, employment, wellbeing and sustainability. 

As the day drew to a close and the networking continued, I was left with a feeling of pride in our sector. In how ITC companies are striving to be the best employers they can be despite facing challenges of an ever changing creative and employment landscape.  

Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, challenged, questioned and shared. It was wonderful to spend the day with you, and I am already looking forward to continuing those conversations over the coming months. 

Nadia Ruiz

ITC Legal & IR Manager