GIFT: Gateshead International Festival of Theatre

FAQs

How do I watch The GIFT Exchange this year?

Due to Covid-19, all events and conversations are taking place online. Tickets are limited, so book in advance to secure your seat by clicking the booking button of each event on our website www.giftfestival.co.uk. Once you’ve booked your tickets, you’ll receive an email with details on how to access your event online.

What digital platforms are you using?

We'll be using a combination of Zoom Meeting, Google Meeting, Facebook Live and YouTube. Links to each platform will be sent out to you in advance of the event once you have booked.

Can I just dip in and out of The GIFT Exchange?

For a live feel, events have a set start time, are streamed live and won’t be available online afterwards. Just book your ticket, save your event-times, and join in with all the action.

What if I miss the start-time for the event I want to attend?

As long as you have your ticket, you can still join late to catch the remaining part of the event, following the information that you receive when you book your ticket. It’s a good idea to set yourself up 10-5 minutes ahead of the event, to get settled in, as we would if we were all together in Gateshead.

I’ve booked a ticket but where is my event confirmation?

You should receive email confirmation of your event booking and an access link for the event. Please check your spam folder to make sure it’s not hiding in there. And if you still can't find your email, please message us on giftfestival.info@gmail.com and someone will be happy to help.

How do I make a donation and where does the money go?

GIFT is not a regularly funded organisation, and every Pay What You Decide donation made for The GIFT Exchange goes to covering GIFT's running costs. We know times are incredibly tight, as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown so even the smallest amount is hugely appreciated. GIFT’s Just Giving page can be found here.

The event that I want to attend is fully booked, is there a waiting list?

Some events have a limited capacity. If you have missed out on an event, please register your interest on the waiting list link and if a space becomes available you will be contacted as soon as possible.

Will I be visible on my screen during the performances?

You won’t be visible, from home, unless you have specifically opted to attend a workshop event or to speak during a talk or debate event. You can also turn your camera off on your device.

I have access requirements. How can I engage with GIFT this year?

We have worked hard to make as many events as possible, accessible, with BSL interpreting and English captioning. Each event on giftfestival.co.uk has individual accessibility information. A quick overview of Access Information is available here.

I am an artist, how do I take part this year?

As usual, there are plenty of events for artists to participate in – talks, workshops and social events and we’d love to see you online at The GIFT Exchange. Take a look at the www.giftfestival.co.uk homepage to find out more and save your seat. If you use Facebook, please join our Facebook festival community group here.

If I can’t get on to my event, how do I get help?

You’ll need an internet connection to access all events digitally. First check you’re connected to make sure you’re up and running and if you are still having a problem please email us on giftfestival.info@gmail.com and we will support you to get online as far as we can. If GIFT’s event platforms are experiencing technical difficulties, we will update our website and social media channels @GIFTfest to provide up to date information for audiences on how best to proceed.

Are your events safe and secure to take part in?

We are doing all that we can to ensure all events run smoothly and safely online and we have tested events and platforms in line with latest digital safety and security guidance for channels, to keep audiences and artists as safe as possible online for this The GIFT Exchange. We recognise that there is the possibility of technical glitches, and online attacks. If you experience anything unusual, that you deem not to be part of the festival experience, please contact GIFT immediately on giftfestival.info@gmail.com

How are you safeguarding younger audiences from viewing more adult material?

Each event has an age guidance – please check this before booking your ticket.

Are you paying artists to take part in The GIFT Exchange this year?

All artists contributing to The GIFT Exchange are paid to take part.

How can I give feedback on this year’s events?

We would really like to hear your feedback and views. All festival participants will receive a post-event survey by email and you can also email giftfestival.info@gmail.com.