Lou Lamparo, Daily Chronicles

In Provence, the “lamparo” referred to a nighttime fishing technique, where fish were attracted by a light fixed at the front of the boat. On a daily basis, these chronicles will enlight some key moments of the program.

By Julie Bordenave, journalist specialized in performing arts, circus, and public space (Zébuline, Théâtres, La Scène…)

Day 2 : May their joy remain!

According to concerns raised on the first day, methodology for data collection and governance models were debated today at La Cartonnerie. First, Professor Michael Anderson (University of Sydney) cheerfully invited the audience to reflect on the real impact of their work as professionals with young audiences and how to make it visible! Even if testimonies were enthusiastic and spontaneous, they could’t mask a reality: it’s quite difficult to quantify emotional aspects within a research protocol. Ability of expressing emotions, dealing with otherness, sense of commitment and community… Through precise research protocols, the University of Sydney is working to identify the virtues of the sector. Among the positive impacts highlighted, some are particularly delightful: “It’s rare that studies talk about

joy; here we can do that!” Michael Anderson exclaims. Others properties such as creativity, empowerment, emotional regulation were mentioned… just like a virtuous circle that seems urgent to share with everyone, especially with the financing institutions. The next step would be to seek for new communication channels, both for data collecting and sharing (local community outreach, multilingual digital campaigns…) in order to show the international reality of the sector and amplify its voice even further.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to a discussion on shared governance of cultural places. Around the table, two experiences are shared:

In France, the « Jeunes prog’ » (Young Schedulers) initiative at the Théâtre de la Renaissance is a groundbreaking program that leads to an entire season schedule for teenagers curated by a group of 11 young people. To help them bring their ideas to life and assert them, they are supported by an artist, described as the “artistic and maieutic guiding thread” of the project. About the Jeunes Prog’ scheduling at the Théâtre de la Renaissance, Marie-Hélène Félix is categorical: it cannot even be considered a real risk-taking, because « as it is often the case when delegating to non-professionals, the general interest is actually better taken into account! ». In Germany, the JourNutz project by TheaterGrueneSosse involves young people in designing a new theater currently under construction in Frankfurt.

These concrete and inspiring illustrations of implementing cultural rights were embodied at the Conference by some of the young participants themselves.

These are just some of the elements that demonstrate the expertise and ethics driving each day these Bright Generations: sharing experiences, gathering concrete field insights to build upon. And always with joy—a precious and rare standard !