Creating a safer performance workplace
Confederation Centre announces Not In OUR Space event to be held on Nov. 10
Islanders from a range of backgrounds will have an opportunity to learn more about developing safe live performance workplaces at a special event later this month.
Not in OUR Space!: Creating Safe and Respectful Spaces in the Performing Arts is a program for live performance professionals, family members and others that addresses problems of harassment in the workspace.
The event will be co-hosted by Adam Brazier, artistic director at Confederation Centre of the Arts, and Arden R. Rhyspan, executive director of Equity. Rhyspan will join via Zoom link and offer a 40-minute presentation about managing a situation in the moment, as well as suggestions for ways bystanders can assist when witnessing harassment of various forms.
The panel will also include an Island representative with local knowledge of the subject themes.
The event takes place on Nov. 10, 3 p.m., in the Homburg Theatre at Confederation Centre. All are welcome. This discussion will be followed by a live audience Q&A. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. For free tickets, visit the Confederation Centre box office in person, by phone at 902-566-1267 or book online.
"Great art and artists will only flourish when given a safe and supportive environment in which to create,” says Brazier. “It is our responsibility as an organization to create that environment and hold ourselves accountable to it. We hope the community will join us in this important and timely discussion."
Discussion topics include the pursuit of safe and respectful workspaces, the welfare of children in the workplace and the condemnation and addressing of inappropriate behaviour in a work setting, such as abuse of power, bullying, discrimination, harassment or sexual harassment, reprisal or violence.
Not in OUR Space! is a national anti-harassment and respectful workplace program working with engagers across disciplines, developed by the Canadian Actors' Equity Association. It aims to ensure safe working conditions for all professionals working in live performance across the country
Ryshpan has worked in the industry for over 35 years in a variety of capacities, with production credits on over 30 feature films and TV projects. Ryshpan was on the board of directors of the Dome Theatre of Dawson College and was a faculty member in the drama department.
She has been executive director of Canadian Actors’ Equity Association since 2007 where she is chief negotiator, responsible for lobbying and advocacy activities as well as the day to day operations of the organization.