Gina Long

Neil D'Arcy-Jones discusses his career shift from law to journalism and theatre, his lifelong connection to East Anglia, and his belief that regional landscapes and histories deserve wider attention. His play The Hay Wain reimagines the people living in John Constable’s landscape during the Swing Riots and Enclosure Acts, challenging the painting’s idealized rural image. The production returns for performances across Suffolk and Essex during the Constable 250 celebrations, combining live music with stories about hardship, resilience, love and hope.

Theatre director and Creative Producer Kirsty Tallent discusses her Ipswich upbringing, her community-focused approach to theatre and the influence of Red Rose Chain founder Joanna Carrick. She emphasizes inclusive, co-created work that gives marginalized people confidence and a platform, citing the multi-sensory production The Green Children as a highlight. As part of the team behind Ipswich’s City of Culture 2029 bid, Tallent hopes success will strengthen local partnerships, expand opportunities for young people and artists, support businesses, and create a lasting sense of pride and confidence across Suffolk.

Festival director Melvin Benn reflects on his career, the development of Latitude since its launch at Henham Park in 2006, and the festival’s distinctive mix of music, literature, comedy, theatre, poetry and family activities. He discusses how live performance has gained importance in the streaming era, the pressures of rising event costs, and the need to support artists and local communities. Benn identifies climate change, extreme weather, fire risk and audience safety as major challenges for outdoor events, while remaining optimistic about music’s ability to renew itself. He also explains his commitment to arts funding, charitable giving, emerging talent and creating inclusive shared experiences.

Adam Tully and Hannah Dewar discuss creating Suffolk Story, an award‑winning publication highlighting Suffolk’s independent food and drink businesses. Through extensive interviews and photography, they showcase the dedication, resilience and community spirit driving the region’s hospitality sector. They emphasise the county’s strong producer relationships, local pride and emerging talent, while outlining plans to expand Suffolk Story into events, collaborations and new projects celebrating Suffolk’s food culture.