The ongoing discussion about different models of production has become even more pressing of late.

After years of rising funding to the arts money is now becoming scarcer, production companies of long standing are winding up and there are murmurings about yet to be defined production hubs.

Examples of recent initiatives include the production hub in Limerick based in the Belltable; freelance artists such as Donal O’Kelly and Paul Brennan working with venues such as The Glen’s Centre in Leitrim and Glor in Ennis; Randolf SD’s partnership with Corn Exchange theatre company and more established collaborations such as Project Art Centre’s associate artist programme; Tall Tales Theatre Company’s residency in the Solstice Arts Centre and festivals such as Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival, Galway and Cork co-producing new work.

· What array of models, whether production companies, freelance producers, producing venues/festivals or hubs can best support the diverse needs of performing artists and their projects?

· Is it possible for people of singular vision to collaborate and share resources?

· Is this a more cost effective way of operating or might it incur the same or additional money?

Chair: Loughlin Deegan, Artistic Director Dublin Theatre Festival & Board member Theatre Forum

Speakers: William Galinsky - Cork Midsummer Festival, Kate McGrath - Fuel Theatre London, Belinda Quirke - Solstice Arts Centre, Lynne Parker - Rough Magic.

Date: Wednesday 1 April 2009

Time 3.00 sharp.

Venue: The Ark, A Cultural Centre for Children, Temple Bar