2026
Towards Sustainability in the Arts Space
Small World Theatre, Cardigan
In May 2026, we hosted a day bringing together artists, cultural leaders, environmental thinkers and representatives from across the arts sector to explore how theatre and cultural spaces can respond to the climate emergency.
Hosted by our founding directors Ann Shrosbree, Bill Hamblett and the team, the gathering explored the practical challenges and possibilities of creating more sustainable arts spaces. With a focus on decarbonisation, sustainable buildings and the role of programming and creative content in supporting meaningful change, the day provided a space for the sector to share experiences, exchange ideas and consider how we can move forward together.
The programme brought together voices from across Wales and beyond, including guest speakers John E McGrath of Factory International, Claire Appleby of The Theatres Trust, Catrin John of the Theatre Green Book, and Grant McFarlane of Swansea Grand Theatre and Brangwyn Hall. A panel discussion, chaired by Jane Davidson, explored the challenges facing cultural venues and the practical steps towards a more sustainable future, with contributions from Andrew Filmer of Aberystwyth University and Judith Musker Turner of the National Library of Wales.
Alongside the discussion, Trwco offered opportunities for conversation and connection, with a locally sourced lunch, a performance of David Pepper’s Piano Phase – Between Light and Dark, and a screening of Momentum, a creative response to Small World Theatre’s building by aerial movement artist Dr Jess Allen.
Held at Small World Theatre’s near-zero-carbon arts space in Cardigan, the day reflected Trwco’s continuing ambition to bring people together at the intersection of creativity, science and climate action, creating space for bold ideas, honest conversations and practical collaboration.
A Practical Resource created for Trwco ‘26 attendees and all, can be downloaded. It has a list of effective practices, considerations and areas for improvement - Building, Operations, and Production, REF Theatre Green Book.
It also includes an action list to drive social change, twelve core principles, a framework, and finally a categorised list of external resource links.
Watch the Talks!
John E McGrath - Artistic Director & Chief. Executive of Factory International, and former Artistic Director of National Theatre Wales.
Claire Appleby - Head of Theatre Buildings at the Theatres Trust.
Catrin John - Interim Director for Theatre Green Book.
Grant McFarlane - Manager of Swansea Grand Theatre and Brangwyn Hall.
The panel discussion chaired by Jane Davidson, and including Andrew Filmer - Senior Lecturer in Theatre and Performance at Aberystwyth University, and Judith Musker Turner - Climate Action Programme Lead for the culture sector, National Library of Wales.