Client Overview:

The Tropicana What’s Next? Festival, held in 2022, emerged as a transformative initiative commissioned by the North Somerset Council. The festival aimed to revitalize The Tropicana, Weston-super-Mare, positioning it as a vibrant cultural hub within the community and demonstrating the need and potential for a full, cultural program. As part of the broader endeavour to secure funding for renovations, the festival served as a demonstration of the venue's potential and its role in the UK Levelling Up Fund initiative. Appointed by the North Somerset Council, we spearheaded the establishment of the Tropicana What’s Next? Festival. Over an intensive eight-month period, we curated an eclectic program, with a focus on placemaking and community engagement. The festival served as in the indoor offering alongside the SEE MONSTER outdoor project.

Objectives:

• Demonstrate Demand: Showcase the potential of The Tropicana as a cultural destination through a diverse range of events and activities.

• Secure Funding: Garner support from stakeholders and funding bodies, demonstrating it’s value and potential for the upcoming UK Levelling Up Fund.

• Community Engagement: Foster community involvement and pride by offering accessible and enriching cultural experiences.

Strategy:

• Placemaking Focus: The festival was designed to highlight the unique identity of The Tropicana and its potential as a cultural anchor within Weston-super-Mare.

• Collaborative Partnerships: Leveraging partnerships with local artists, performers, and organisations ensured a diverse and inclusive program that resonated with the community.

• STEAM-Themed Productions: Incorporating STEAM themes into theatrical productions attracted audiences of all ages and underscored the festival's innovative approach.

• Broadway Collaboration: Collaborating with Broadway star Christina Bianco added prestige and drew attention to the festival, enhancing its visibility and appeal.

Execution:

• Event Curation: We meticulously curated an eight-week program featuring theatrical workshops, art exhibitions, and original productions to cater to diverse interests and demographics.

• Community Engagement: Extensive outreach efforts, including community forums and interactive events, fostered a sense of ownership and involvement among local residents.

• Renovation Fundraising: The success of the festival played a crucial role in validating the vision for The Tropicana as a cultural landmark.

Results:

• Funding Success: The Tropicana What’s Next? Festival played a pivotal role in demonstrating the potential and demand of a cultural program, supporting in paving the way for the venue's transformation into an 8,000-capacity cultural hub through the UK Levelling Up Fund.

• Community Empowerment: The festival galvanised community support and engagement, establishing The Tropicana as a focal point for cultural activities and events.

• Placemaking Impact: The festival's success demonstrated the potential of placemaking initiatives in revitalising urban spaces and fostering community pride and identity.