Unsettling times on the world stage can be both grist for the mill and a further obstacle to working in the arts, as funding continues to fall lower on political agendas. It is these times when the arts are of the most value to audiences, as we all struggle to make sense of a changing world. However it can be difficult to shift from despondency to inspiration – or at the very least business as usual.
‘It’s a test this year,’ admits Yumi Umiumare, who is co-producing ButohOUT, a festival taking place from February to April at Abbotsford Convent and Dancehouse. ‘I would love to say it’s sustainable but it’s actually quite hard work.’
