The International network for contemporary performing arts (IETM) will host their 2020 Satellite meeting in Galway during the county’s term as European Capital of Culture next year. IETM is a network of over 450 performing arts organisations and individual members working in the contemporary performing arts worldwide from theatre, dance, circus and performance, to interdisciplinary live art forms and new media.
In response to the concerns of members about the impact of Brexit and the need to strengthen connections with European organisations, Theatre Forum is organising this IETM Satellite meeting in Galway for up to 200 European and Irish artists in June 2020. Both IETM members and non-members are welcome to participate.
Tackling the most urgent topic of our time, delegates will explore relationships between artists, the arts ecosystem and the planet.
Galway is a fitting place to explore the ecology of the performing arts and our roles in creating more equilibrium in that ecosystem. On the western edge of Europe, relationships between people and place, art and science, land and sea are in sharp focus. The meeting will investigate how to mitigate climate change and limit the damage being done. It will examine practical and philosophical responses to imagine an ecology fit for the future. Ways that artists could work to change hearts and minds as well as inspiring others to take action will also be explored.
Organised in collaboration with Theatre Forum, TheatreNI, Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture and the National University of Ireland, Galway, the Satellite meeting will happen in a place known for sharing ideas and a collaborative approach. Artists have always made their way to Galway and art is woven into the city’s fabric. Those attending will experience some highlights of the Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture Programme, events that are authentically of Galway, in the City, around the County and on the smallest of the Aran Islands, Inis Oírr.
IETM and partners expect this Satellite meeting to start conversations and generate ideas for a performing arts ecology that’s fit for our future and the planet.