In the Spotlight: Ree Kirkbride
We’re excited to introduce Ree, a Creative Producer based in the Tees Valley, with a career that spans both local and national projects. From being the Creative Producer for the WOW Festival to working on big events like the Fenwick Christmas Window Reveal Live Show, Ree has made a real mark in the creative and cultural world. Her work mixes a love for the arts, from theatre and performance to producing projects that make a difference. In this interview, Ree talks about her journey, the challenges of freelancing, and her pride in seeing the arts scene in the Tees Valley grow. Let’s get into her story!
Hi…., let’s introduce you to the network, Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started as a creative producer?
I guess I got started in the world of creative producing by accident! I started life as a Theatre Maker and Performer, having done a degree in Drama and Theatre and a masters in Contemporary Performance Practice. After graduating, I took a job with Bobby Baker on her national tour as Performer and Stage Manager, which culminated in a period of time working at the Southbank Centre. Aged 22, I wanted to earn a living and move out on my own and so started a job as a Projects Coordinator at Tees Valley Arts. I’ve always been naturally organised and enjoyed working on projects that make a visible difference to peoples’ lives, and this job seemed to combine both those things. As the years progressed, I took more jobs that were producer focussed, building my skills set and network, and gradually taking on bigger projects with more responsibilities.
You are based in Tees Valley, did you grow up here?
I didn’t grow up here, but I almost feel like I did. My grandparents lived in Redcar so most school holidays were spent on Redcar beach, or in Saltburn, or shopping in Middlesbrough town centre. It felt like a second home! I moved with my parents aged 16 from North West London. Everyone is always shocked that we moved from London to the North East, but I think it is a brilliant place to live! I’ve seen the arts and culture seen grow drastically too in the last 15 years and feel proud to have been a part of that. I love the fact that we are close to countryside, seaside and don’t have to battle the tube every day…
What does a typical day look like for you as a freelancer? How do you manage the variety of tasks that come with the role?
There is no typical day in my freelance life! I predominantly work from home, but as I work on a number of different projects and with different artists and clients, the day could look so different from one to the next! I may be on a shoot with a commercial client that I’ve produced, hanging an art exhibition, speaking at an event, or liaising with a venue about an up and coming event or festival. If I’m working from home for the day, it usually involves a heated blanket and lots of cups of tea.
Most rewarding part of being a freelancer in the creative and cultural sector?
I would say the fact that my job allows me to see the difference arts and culture can make to peoples’ lives, and knowing that you have been key to making that happen.
Are there any projects, collaborations, or accomplishment you’re most proud of in your career so far?
I have a few key accomplishments within the last year that I am really proud of…
- WOW - I’ve followed the WOW Foundation for many many years, and taken part in online conversations etc, but being the creative producer for the upcoming festival in Durham feels incredibly exciting. Only last week did we have an event at the Royal Albert Hall in London with headliners such as Annie Lennox and Angela Davis. This felt like a huge ‘full circle’ moment, as aged 14 I had the exciting opportunity to perform at the Royal Albert Hall with my School. This was something many Londoners got the opportunity to do, but it always stayed with me. The grandeur and history of the venue, the size of the audience, the buzz. I thought then, I want to work in this world, and last week, there I was working an event on International Womens Day for WOW Global.
- Fenwick Christmas Window Reveal Live Show - producing and directing a large scale national event felt like a really proud moment! Providing utter joy and festive fun to the people of the North East was an absolute treat and honour!
- Working alongside photographer, Michael Sreenan - Michael and I have been friends for a long time, but started working together after I had my daughter and was looking to get back to work. We developed a trust and a way of working that I have taken with me to other places of work since. Working alongside another freelancer, who trusts you to produce their artistic output is incredibly rewarding. We had multiple successes whilst working together, and still find the opportunity to collaborate when we can!
- Our Stomping Grounds Festival - producing a festival for learning disabled artists in the community that I live in, will remain a career highlight. There is such a feeling of achievement when you produce something in the area in which you live.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a freelancer in the creative industry?
I find the challenges in the creative industry are often around knowing your worth, being true to yourself and your values, and being able to manage your time effectively. It is really easy to feel burnout, as you are tempted to take on every offer that comes in. I think having faith and confidence in your ability is key, and learning the power of ‘no’.
What skills have you had to develop most as a creative producer, and how have you grown professionally since you started?
My skills have improved in every aspect, but I think I’ve become skilled in seeking out opportunities that align with my values.
What are your future goals as a creative producer? Any dream projects or collaborations you’d like to take on?
Working with a brand like Fenwick has been great and on projects that have National or International profile. The challenge of bigger venues, and bigger audiences feels exciting now!
What do you enjoy as a member of Tees Valley Creates: The Freelancer Network?
Connecting with other freelancers across all creative disciplines, co-working spaces, and helping to provide support and guidance for anyone thinking of going into Creative Producing.