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My role as a participatory manager for Birmingham Opera Company was both rewarding and a privilege. I had the opportunity to support individuals driven by passion, purpose, and a desire to contribute to something meaningful. Working with a small, dedicated team of amazing individuals, our process began with developing the project plan and working within a set timeframe to deliver it. This involved a series of steps, including the call-out process, taster sessions, data collection and management, administration, marketing, and building relationships with community, education, and arts sector partners.
Once all the volunteers had committed to the process, it was my responsibility to keep them informed, include them in the planning and decision-making processes, and address any access needs. My focus was on maintaining their motivation, creating an environment that was safe, welcoming, and full of warmth, also, a place where they felt a true sense of belonging.
As a producer and community developer, I saw how my work interconnected with the community. I noticed some of the volunteers for Michael Tippett's New Year production were individuals I had engaged with in previous projects. This underscored the importance of sustaining relationships with community groups, as these connections facilitate access to arts and culture. When people trust you, they are more likely to engage in activities you promote, even when working in a freelance capacity.
The benefits for the volunteers were numerous: being part of something special, meeting new people, learning and practicing new skills, making social connections, and reducing feelings of isolation. Working alongside creative professionals, they had fun, came out of their shells, developed self-confidence, gained experience for their CVs, and, ultimately, were part of an amazing production.
My role in participatory management was not just about sharing responsibility, it was about building a community. By actively involving the volunteers in the decision-making process, I helped create a dynamic and motivated team. The result was a group of volunteers who were not only committed to the production but also proud to be a part of it.
Administration was a significant part of the role, including managing spreadsheets, updating information, and regularly communicating with volunteers via emails and telephone calls. Clear and open communication was essential, and I ensured it was maintained between the volunteers and the team. Flexibility and adaptability were key in addressing any issues or challenges that arose.
Understanding each volunteer individually through observation, active listening, and maintaining a positive and responsive attitude helped create an inclusive, fun, and supportive environment. It was incredibly rewarding to witness the volunteers' growth over time, as their confidence and skills developed.