Griffin Ambassadors
Griffin Ambassadors is an annual access program for high school students in years 11 & 12 that helps further their love and knowledge of Australian theatre. Since 2004, hundreds of students from as far afield as Wollongong and Goulburn have taken part.
In 2008, Griffin selected one hundred year students to share in the company's work - all with one thing in common - their immeasurable passion for theatre. These students have become our very own ‘Griffin Ambassadors' and are provided with invaluable opportunities; attending Griffin and Griffin Stablemates productions and forums for free, exploring all aspects of theatre craft through participation in special workshops, and becoming closely acquainted with the life and workings of our theatre company.
In return, the Ambassadors act as advocates and advisers for Griffin, informing their schools, family and friends about what is going on at the Stables.
...Everything provided [by Griffin] was absolutely excellent. The ambassadorship offered me experiences that I otherwise could not have imagined partaking in. Thank you very much for running this program and offering such opportunities to students like myself...I have gained a far greater understanding of the Australian theatre scene, and theatre practices in general - Eloise Nigro, 2006 Ambassador
As Ambassadors, students embark on a rewarding journey as they become a part of Griffin and share in the artistic vision of our theatre company - developing their love and passion for Australian theatre.
If you would like to know more about the Griffin Ambassadors Program contact the Griffin office on 9332 1052 or ambassadors@griffintheatre.com.au
WHAT'S IN STORE FOR 2008
Induction
Griffin Ambassadors meet at the beginning of the school year for a weekend induction. At this induction they:
- are briefed about the year ahead - the season of productions, how these plays have been developed, the social issues they explore, an introduction to the writers and other collaborators, other programs at Griffin etc.
- share ideas about how they might best fulfil their roles.
- participate in a series of workshops in smaller groups - acting, directing and writing workshops; HSC-related workshops; sessions with recent NIDA graduates which helped build bonds within the group.
Communication
- An e-newsletter is distributed to the Ambassadors outlining new developments and sharing ideas on how they are fulfilling their roles.
- Ambassadors have access to their own section of Griffin's website and forum, where they can share contacts and comments, access resources and keep track of their progress in bringing guests to Griffin shows.
- Ambassadors are encouaged to give feedback, ask advise and access the resources of Griffin's staff.
Productions
All Ambassadors attend a special performance of each of Griffin's productions, for free. After the performance, they meet with actors and discuss the production and play.
Ambassadors encourage their peers and friends to experience Griffin's work, each aiming to introduce 20 new people over the year. Ambassadors are offered an extra free ticket to each production to facilitate their advocacy and encouragement.
Rewards
Special prizes are offered each year to the three Ambassadors who introduce the most new patrons to Griffin.
Evaluation
All Ambassadors will meet at the end of the year to share their experiences, evaluate the program and to suggest how it might work better in the future.
"The Ambassadorship has given me more opportunities to participate in the theatre industry than I could hope for. I have so much respect for Griffin and the work it does to water and nurture the grass roots of Australian theatre, and I know the future of Australian theatre is in good hands!"
Jacqui Breen, Danebank School,
Griffin Ambassador 2006.
APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2008 AMBASSADORS' PROGRAM HAVE NOW CLOSED. APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2009 PROGRAM ACCEPTED FROM NOVEMBER 1.