Recently, I’ve been doing some work behind the scenes with a new client in Stratford upon Avon. No biggie there.
Then, out of the blue, I found out there was an American Civil War battle re-enactment celebration weekend happening at the venue.
It didn’t take me long to figure out my camera may be needed.
As for the moonshine these blokes were drinking, I’m not going to comment, apart from the fact that my memory of that night around the campfires is still very hazy. The bottle didn’t open until the camera had been put back in it’s bag, although looking at some of the focus pulling, you may think otherwise.
Oh, and before you ask, no, I didn’t wear a costume!
I managed to steal 15 minutes of Helga’s time at the Fierce Earth offices in The Big Peg, right in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Contained within the interview, Helga tells us her thoughts on the creative industries and a way forwards for Birmingham; her use of social media, connectivity and communications; and how the use of digital media in the arts requires an attitude shift from cultural providers, to encourage listening to audiences, and the democratic process involved when engaging with them. Finally, we hear of Fierce Earth’s upcoming programme and their plans for the future.
Helga is a graduate in Drama and French, a qualified lawyer and a former Associate at Wragge & Co.
Her experience includes Business Development Manager for Second Sight and being the first administrator for Women & Theatre. Helga is a Board Member of Bright Space (UK) Ltd and Geese Theatre and has previously held the position of Chair of the Board for Creative Republic.
In addition, Helga has particular expertise in professional services marketing, presentation skills training and meeting facilitation. Currently, Helga is leading the on-line campaign team behind Birmingham’s City of Culture bid.
Self-described as “Tireless champion of the West Midlands’ creative industries and fan of a nice cup of tea” – you can contact Helga via her blog, twitter or LinkedIn.
