The Empty Space
Talk
The Empty Space: Hacking the Arts Funding Crisis
SCRUM invites you to join us for an evening with New Diorama Theatre, Theatre Deli and Bold Theatre, in a discussion of innovative approaches to beating the arts crisis. We will share experiences, ideas and hard-won lessons, in a night exploring what’s possible when we think beyond traditional funding models.
From working with developers and landlords to transform empty commercial spaces into creative lifelines for communities, to finding new approaches to income generation and partnerships, this event will explore the challenges, opportunities and practical approaches that could help sustain the next generation of creatives.
After a discussion and Q&A with our panel, join us in the bar for networking and finding new connections. The conversation doesn’t end on stage: this will be an evening of inspiration, networking and practical conversation, designed to bring together the expertise of real estate, charities and creative organisations. Join us and imagine what’s possible when we think outside the box.
Hosted by Lucie Dawkins and Wofai JE, Artistic Director and Executive Director at SCRUM Theatre, featuring:
Alex Ferguson - Executive Director & Co-CEO, New Diorama Theatre
David Ralph – CEO, Theatre Deli
Shani Erez & Sarah Goddard - Co-Directors, BOLD Theatre
We look forward to welcoming:
arts organisations looking for ways to generate sustainable income and expand their impact.
creative producers exploring income generation outside traditional funding.
real estate specialists, landlords, and asset managers thinking creatively about how to use void spaces.
funders, businesses, and individuals interested in ensuring a thriving future for the theatre.
Wednesday 11 November
6.30pm
SCRUM Theatre at Riverside Studios
Offering affordable training is at the heart of SCRUM’s charitable objectives, which is why we have different ticket price tiers. We encourage you to pay what you can based on the below descriptors:
£10 - Subsidised ticket price - You have limited expendable income** and need to opt for the lowest cost option. If this ticket price is a barrier to access, we always have a number of bursary places and travel stipends available for all of our programmes. Simply email workshops@scrumtheatre.co.uk.
£14 - Subsidised ticket price- You have some expendable income and can meet basic needs, even if there may be occasional financial stress
£17 - Semi-subsidised ticket price - You have a comfortable amount of expendable income, do not face financial barriers and are able to cover the full cost of the event ticket.
£22 - Full ticket price - You have a comfortable amount of expendable income, do not face financial barriers and are able to cover the full cost of the event ticket.
*BASIC NEEDS include food, housing, clothing and transportation.
**EXPENDABLE INCOME might mean you are able to buy coffee or tea at a shop, go to the cinema or a concert, buy new clothes, books and similar items each month, etc.
Date:
Time:
Location:
Price:
Summer Writing Series
Tristan Fynn-Aiduenu’s intensive writing workshop is part of our 2026 Summer Writing Series. Whether you want to deepen your practice, train specific muscles in your craft, or work with a specialist, we’ve got something for you. Check out the full season below.
Please note: our workshops often sell out quickly. To avoid disappointment, we recommend signing up to our newsletter. There, you will receive early access to all our workshops announcements and ticket sales.