Contacting the World was the month’s highlight. A festival of quality theatre (with only one or two exceptions) produced by emerging artists. The festival is special in so many ways and thanks and credit are due to Noel Grieg, who conceived it, and John McGrath and Julia Turpin, whose passion, commitment to inclusivity and leadership make the festival what it is. To understand the festival and its ethos, it is best to visit www.contactingtheworld.org… Many claimed that Bare Feet Theatre Company was the highlight of the festival. This was down to their performances, energy, the very fact that they made it out of Africa, and their relationship with their international creative partners, The Other Side of the Mirror from Gdansk. What made it more special for us at Hope Street was that the company was formed, with young people living on the streets in Zambia, by our former Trainee Director Adam McGuigan, a young director who is an amazing, inspirational visionary. Check out his website: www.adamstravels.com - and please give him some money… The EveryWord Festival showcasing work by emerging writers included two exceptional pieces directed by Alan Richardson and performed by Tmesis Theatre.