Beth Prior #RUOSTURNS10
Tell us how you are involved in the project? Tell us about your experience
I'm a relatively recent addition to the Right Up Our Street team in comparison to our 10-year history. I joined during lockdown in January 2021 as Project Co-ordinator in a freelance capacity, then stayed on in my current permanent role of Project Producer. After graduating with a degree in English & Related Literature, I spent several years as a freelance Programme Assistant at film festivals like Sheffield Doc/Fest and Barbican Young Programmers and completed a graduate internship in the Events Department at University of York. My background of events has come in handy as our work is always so varied and bespoke to the needs of each community. I only knew Right Up Our Street by association before joining the team so I feel very lucky to have found a job I love with an ethos I very much agree with.
What was the most memorable RUOS moment?
Joining a new team during lockdown meant immediately adapting the programme while still learning what Right Up Our Street is all about. The Culture Co-operative project was a great example of what RUOS does and how its programme changes to suit the people who need it most. In particular, packing and delivering 400 craft boxes to food banks across the borough felt especially meaningful in the summer of 2021. We had different types of activities to accommodate different audiences who felt equally isolated. Among others, everyone received a doll to stitch to hug or give a grandchild; a tote bag of Doncaster landmarks to colour in; and embroidery to while away the time before social distancing ended. We wanted to gift something really special to food bank users at a difficult time and take their mind off the lockdown with something creative to do.
Has your involvement in the project changed your approach to working in the arts?
I love the variety of our programming. Anything feels possible at Right Up Our Street. By taking our cue from the community first, then using our knowledge to programme appropriately, we are always being challenged. The relationship between RUOS and its communities pushes both to be more adventurous and think outside the box. Our programme is collaborative and owned by everyone, whether you're an artist or a participant.
On a personal level, I feel I have a lot more freedom in this role than any I've previously held. No matter how complicated a project might be, each one teaches me something new. It's helped me realise I can build a career in Doncaster. There's so many up-and-coming creatives currently working in Doncaster, this feels like a very exciting moment for our city.
In your opinion, how does having a project like Right Up Our Street benefit the borough of Doncaster?
Since Right Up Our Street first formed 10 years ago, Doncaster is much more engaged with the arts. There's a thriving arts scene and so much to do and see. But people are struggling now more than ever and we believe in the power of creativity and its influence on our day-to-day lives. Everything we deliver is free and fun to attend. I believe if we can make a small difference to someone's day, our programme is a success. There's so much potential in Doncaster and Right Up Our Street aims to prove that we deserve something special - whether that's seeing major light installations at DN Festival of Light or taking part in a bespoke project in your local area.
