I am very excited to be working with the Oldham Coliseum on their production of The Jungle Book as an Audience Development and Engagement Consultant. As part of this, I have been undertaking audience engagement research to improve participation and increase the engagement of South Asian communities by working with both the local and wider communities.

I feel very passionately about introducing the South Asian communities to theatre, as growing up, the theatre wasn’t very accessible, and it was seen as a luxury and privilege to attend. I had an Indian cinema nearby which I sometimes visited, but the first time I visited the theatre was very special and I am excited to be able to open that opportunity to others.

Performed by a cast of seven talented actors at the Oldham Coliseum, The Jungle Book explores the themes of family, belonging and identity, which makes Rudyard Kipling’s story a universal one, and it has been amazing to be a part of it.

After being delayed for two years due to Covid-19, the doors will finally opened on the 7th of April.

Collaborated efforts with Head of Marketing , I lead on facilitating the focus group as a piece for audience development. This helped identify the barriers & recommendations.

Through the evaluation process I exceeded the targets by an an increase of 44%! of new audiences. What an achievement ! opening doors to accessing theatre and new experiences.

Been an absolute pleasure working on this commission.

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