Leading on from the success of the Technically Speaking Conference on the 16th January, the Barbican Creative Hub looks forward to Future Perspectives on Thursday 27th February.
Conferences feature inspiring keynotes from industry experts, practical demonstrations and the opportunity to network, whether you’ve experience under your belt or are just starting out in the industry. Come and be inspired by people dedicated to making regenerative design more inclusive and sustainable!


Technically Speaking 2025 Recap:
We kicked off the day with a compelling keynote from Michèle Taylor MBE, Director for Change at Ramps on the Moon. Michèle challenged us to rethink stagecraft through an anti-ableist lens, sparking vital conversations on the social model of disability, presumed able-bodiedness, and the practical ways systems and individuals in the creative arts can remove barriers for disabled people.
The afternoon was packed with expert technical demonstrations from Ben Glover and Will Monks, who delved into the art of Creative Captioning. Delegates learned how to:
- Utilise software effectively,
- Embed captions seamlessly into the fabric of a show, and
- Work creatively and collaboratively with captions to combat ableism.


As Creative Captioning continues to grow as a crucial facet of technical theatre, we were honoured to host these experts during this exciting period of industry transformation!
A massive thank you to our incredible speakers, engaged delegates, and photographer Richard Hall for capturing the energy of the event so beautifully.
Technically Speaking 2025 was produced by Barbican Creative Hub, Lincoln Arts Centre, and students from the University of Lincoln’s Technical Theatre and Stage Management programme.

Future Perspectives 2025, Thursday 27th February
Future Perspectives is a biannual event exploring the themes of technology and sustainability, specifically focussed on a creative response to the climate crisis. This event will explore diverse perspectives and a multidisciplinary approach, with thought-leaders in circular, bio-design, regenerative, slow, and de-growth practices.
Offering a mix of keynote presentations and panel discussions to inspire and inform an audience of creative businesses, freelancers, academics, students, and graduates, our aim is to create conversation and generate new ideas for a climate-positive future.
Highlights of the Day:
Keynote Presentations: Tansy Robertson-Fall, Senior Design Manager at the renowned Ellen MacArthur Foundation, will present on how to design out waste and keep materials in use longer. This keynote will highlight the work of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation in transitioning to a sustainable, circular economy.
We’ll also hear from Larry Botchway, Co-Founder of POoR Collective, to discuss innovative approaches to inclusive design, including how architecture can better serve diverse communities and foster social equity.
Leksi Kostur and Simon Caroll of Re:Right Design will offer expert insight into the use of innovative materials and biomimicry to create installations and products that harness the power of nature.
Panel Discussion:
A unique opportunity to discuss the themes of the day with a cross-section of panellists from the arts and creative sector.
Tristan Hessing, Founder, Future Makers
Kerry Gibson, Founder, Rethread Denim
Jo Cope, Artist
Professor Anne Chick, University of Lincoln
Networking Opportunities: We’re offering opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, educators, and students at both Technically Speaking and Future Perspectives. Share ideas, experiences, and resources in a supportive environment!
Register now to engage with industry-leading change in the heart of Lincoln and beyond.
Find out more and book your free ticket here: Future Perspectives – Barbican Creative Hub