'Expectations around theatre for young people are too prescribed today. Adults have long-held views on what works are appropriate and yet among all this concern for young people’s creativity, it is not acknowledged as art. For the young people who work in the sector, the word ‘value’ is clouded by precedent: we struggle to be heard. In a startling expose of a system in serious need of reconstruction, Giles calls for a review of the accepted attitudes, and the embrace of a different paradigm that places young people at the centre of change. We must un-learn the past hierarchies, empower the engagement of children as a legitimate collaboration, and recognise the power of instinctive play and imagination as intelligent modes of exploration.' (Publication summary)
'During her seventeen years as Artistic Director and CEO of Polyglot Theatre, Sue Giles has led significant shifts in Polyglot’s creative practice. As Vice-President of ASSITEJ, she has been a remarkable advocate for young audiences. Giles’ Platform Paper A Review of Young People and the Arts: An Agenda for Change clearly articulates recent developments in theatre-making by and for young people and children. Her survey encompasses the broad range of practices within this field, including youth arts, theatre for young audiences, and work made by professional contemporary artists with children and young people for adult audiences.' (Introduction)
'During her seventeen years as Artistic Director and CEO of Polyglot Theatre, Sue Giles has led significant shifts in Polyglot’s creative practice. As Vice-President of ASSITEJ, she has been a remarkable advocate for young audiences. Giles’ Platform Paper A Review of Young People and the Arts: An Agenda for Change clearly articulates recent developments in theatre-making by and for young people and children. Her survey encompasses the broad range of practices within this field, including youth arts, theatre for young audiences, and work made by professional contemporary artists with children and young people for adult audiences.' (Introduction)
