Magdalen Bartlett

I’m a Dancer, Choreographer, Workshop Leader and I develop theatre projects.  I’ve been involved with CAN as a participant, a freelance artist and as a Creative Producer. The role with CAN was instrumental in helping me to develop a strategic approach to administration, project development, and management.

CAN has always been really helpful to me. It’s supported my development as an artist through freelance opportunities.  The organisation has helped grow my profile in the North West and nurtured my skills.  Taking part in the digital Do IT training in 2014/2015, helped me build my digital marketing skills. I learned how to build a WordPress website, how to get the most out of social media, and how to develop content through photography, audio, and video.

CAN was instrumental in helping me to set up Afrocats an award-winning CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) that supports adults, youth and families who are refugees, asylum seekers, and first and second-generation British young people in 2003. In 2021 Afrocats won the Creative Care Award at the Manchester Culture Awards.

CAN is important because it bridges the gap between community organisations and mainstream arts organisations, and it introduces diverse artists to opportunities and professional platforms.

CAN makes a real difference to artists and the communities it works with.

@afrocatsarts