Coffee Klatch

"Coffee Klatch" (/ˈkaf-fee-klach/) connects you with up to 10 delegates in person for an informal and intimate discussion. Discussion topics are submitted by delegates and conversations will be delegate-led as well!

Thursday, January 11, 2024

  Tea, coffee, and light refreshments provided!

Coffee Klatch is now open for sign-up through 5:00 PM EST, Thursday, January 4th, 2024. The session sign-up is for the CONGRESS DELEGATES ONLY. Please register before you sign-up!

Coffee Klatch Topic Listing

Coffee Klatch 1 | Empowering LGBTQIA+ Artists on Global Stages
Even in regions that are considered affirming of all artists, representation on global stages for many artists remains elusive. In this discussion we’ll consider opportunities to expand inclusivity of LGBTQIA+ arts and ensure representation and positive experiences for LGBTQIA+ artists around the world.
Host: Ulricha Johnson (Swedish Performing Arts Coalition, Sweden)

Coffee Klatch 2 | Cultural Exchange: East Meets West
How do we foster exchange between the East and the West? What roles can performing arts markets play in continuing this global exchange of art and artists, even as the realities of logistics and funding reduce opportunities?
Host: Louis Siu (Toolbox Percussion, Hong Kong, China)

Coffee Klatch 3 | Cultural Exchange: Global South Meets North
Bring your ideas to a discussion of innovative and out-of-the-box methods of developing and facilitating collaborations and projects between the Global South and North. Together, we will look at navigating regional power structures and how we can best nurture equitable cultural exchange.
Host: Aaron Fernandes (Aaron Fernandes Entertainment, India)

Coffee Klatch 4 | The Role of Music Competitions in Developing Artists and Programming
What is the purpose of competitions and how do we keep them relevant and helpful for artists worldwide? Are there other avenues or opportunities for developing and preparing artists as professionals?
Host: Yaron Kohlberg (Piano Cleveland, United States)

Coffee Klatch 5 | Language as Both a Barrier and Opportunity for Cultural Exchange
Which are the linguistic barriers that exclude artists and communities from international collaboration? What methodologies, technologies, and models can promote linguistic justice and representation?
Host: Natalia Mallo (Cultura Inglesa Festival, Brazil)

Coffee Klatch 6 | Rethinking the Lobby: Spaces for Community and Programming
A conversation exploring the growing trend of utilizing lobby spaces for purposes beyond audience egress. Together, we will examine how these spaces can expand and promote participation at performances and venues. Can existing venues adapt and make better use of their lobby spaces?
Host: Jerad Schomer (Charcoalblue, United States)

Coffee Klatch 7 | International Perspectives on Independent Producing
This session is for those with an independent producing practice who are seeking to build connections and exchange knowledge. What does independent producing look like in your local context, and what common ground can be found among independent producers across the globe?
Host: Erin Milne (Bureau of Works, Australia)

Coffee Klatch 8 | The Value of Expanding International Producing Networks (Table 1)
A discussion led by members of CIPA (Creative & Independent Producers Alliance) will explore the roles of producing networks, and particularly their importance in times of global crisis. This far-reaching conversation will build on discussions held at the ISPA’s New York 2023 Congress.
Host: TBA

Coffee Klatch 9 | The Value of Expanding International Producing Networks (Table 2)
A discussion led by members of CIPA (Creative & Independent Producers Alliance) will explore the roles of producing networks, and particularly their importance in times of global crisis. This far-reaching conversation will build on discussions held at the ISPA’s New York 2023 Congress.
Host: TBA

Coffee Klatch 10 | Urgency of Now
In 2023, amidst a time of seemingly unprecedented challenges, we explored the theme “Urgency” of Now. We came together to discuss issues ranging from equity to climate change and to envision a new future. One year later, have we changed or are these discussions more even more relevant today?
Host: Colleen Smith (First Ontario PAC, Canada)

Coffee Klatch 11 | Art and Borders
In January of 2020, not knowing what lay ahead, we visited the theme Art and Borders. Given the unparalleled relevance of this theme today, what are the issues we should be exploring and addressing as a global cultural community?
Host: Nazli Tabatabai-Khatambakhsh (Guildhall School of Music, United Kingdom )

Coffee Klatch 12 | Contemporary Circus 
When you think of circus, do you still think of elephants and carnies? Juvenile entertainment? How do we expand circus literacy beyond devotees and towards the presenting field at large, in order to ensure that audiences have access to some of the most cutting-edge performance being created today?
Host: Ruth Wikler (TOHU/Wikler Arts, Canada/United States)