Unlimited Theatre’s J Spooner: ‘Make room for others to thrive’

How did you start off in theatre?

From as early as I can remember I wanted to be an actor. Reflecting back now, it was the in-the-moment mindfulness of the act of performing that I enjoyed. And I had that one teacher who coached and encouraged me. Thank you, Mr Taylor.

What is the best piece of advice you have for drama students and graduates today?

Do the basics well. Do the prep and be on time. Make room for others to thrive. Be generous and kind. Thank people for their generosity and kindness. Do these things and people will always want to work with you.

What would you change about theatre?

The industry continues to not only allow but reward the widespread bullying and abusive behaviour of ‘mavericks’ and ‘geniuses’ that would be career-ending in any other sector. There are no clear routes for people (especially freelancers who make up so much of the workforce) to safely report harmful behaviour. That is a shameful state of affairs that needs to be addressed.

What is the best part of your job?

Creating opportunities that pay our extraordinary colleagues and collaborators to make experiences that will delight audiences. And to invite people to do this in an environment where everyone feels truly valued. We hope our new grant initiatives, the unAwards, will help support this mission. 

Who are arts practitioners you admire and would recommend to students?

The smaller founder/artist-led companies that are making the truly innovative work beyond the mainstream. There are so many but if you follow these, you’ll open a rabbit hole of inspiring wonder: RashDash, Upswing, Caroline Horton, Transform Festival, Barrel Organ, Tangled Feet, Selina Thompson, Scott Turnbull, Sleepdogs, Fevered Sleep, Quarantine, Stopgap Dance and Deafinitely Theatre.

What is the one skill every successful theatre professional should have?

Empathy. The ability to emotionally understand what other people feel and see things from their point of view is a skill that you can learn and continuously develop.