Spoken word poetry organisation announces trainee artistic director

Leicester-based poet TY’RONE HAUGHTON has been announced as the first trainee artistic director for the spoken word poetry organisation Apples & Snakes. 

The new role was created in response to feedback from the spoken word community and will see a new trainee appointed every two years.

Haughton is an artist and producer with extensive knowledge of the national spoken word scene and social care sector.

He will shadow Apples & Snakes artistic director LISA MEAD across all aspects of the leadership role.

This will include creative producing, financial management, fundraising, human resources, partner relationships and communications.

Haughton said: “I think this new role is extremely important because arts and culture are full of artists who feel there is a glass ceiling or a cap to their equity in the sector.

“For Apples & Snakes to invest in someone like me prepares me for leadership through necessary training which isn’t available elsewhere. I hope this positive step is the start of a trend.” 

Mead explained that the role had been created to address the “gap in provision” in the sector, and to ensure “there is equal opportunity at every level”.

She added: “Our sector needs the talent and insight artists bring, but they also need support and training to ensure they can fully realise their leadership potential.

“As a small organisation, we can only support one trainee every two years and we call on our peers to replicate our initiative.

“Together we can create the next generation of leaders who may otherwise not have the resources or connections to break through and sustain senior roles.”