Visitor Elves

episode artwork

Kelly Ballard

11 December 2024

56m 35s

Ep 54 Clare Reddington on skipping school, creativity and financial resilience at Bristol's Watershed.

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56:35

Today I had the opportunity to chat with Clare Reddington, CEO of the Watershed in Bristol

In a fascinating conversation, Clare shared how she and her team are navigating the challenges that many organisations in the visitor economy face with mounting financial pressures.

We discuss the cultural cinema and events venue, which saw nearly half a million visitors last year.

Established in 1982, Watershed is the UK's first media centre focusing on independent films and creative technology. Despite financial challenges, including a £75,000 National Insurance increase and rising energy costs, Watershed continues to innovate with new spaces and initiatives.

We chat about:

  • An overview of the Watershed: a cultural hub that includes a cinema, cafe, events space, and the Pervasive Media Studio.
  • Clare's journey to the Watershed, from her background in media studies to her current role as CEO.
  • The Watershed's focus on collaboration and supporting creative talent through the Pervasive Media Studio.
  • The Playable City initiative which creates joyful, playful experiences in public spaces around the world.
  • Clare's tips for maintaining creativity and resilience during tough financial times.

For all links head to www.visitorelves.co.uk

This episode is sponsored by Hello Starling.

Hello Starling is an award-winning Media Planning and Buying agency that specialises in delivering advertising campaigns with great results for visitor attractions and destinations. 

They've worked with brands such as Bristol Zoo Project, Visit Shropshire, Visit Conwy, Visit Herefordshire and the National Tourism Office for Poland. If you want to be the centre of attention, visit hellostarling.com today.

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