Reclaim: Changemakers Panel – Women Shaping the Future of the Arts
Hosted by Katie Villa
Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the power, passion, and impact of women in the southwest theatre industry. The Changemakers Panel brings together a selection of trailblazing voices from the Southwest who are reshaping the creative landscape. Featuring:
- Sara Rhodes – CEO and Creative Director of Sterts Arts and Environmental Centre and advocate for inclusive theatre-making
- Debbie Bucella – Chief Executive of Alibi and champion for inspiring young people through the arts
- Alix Harris – award-winning theatre-maker and founder of Beyond Face, amplifying underrepresented voices
Together, these women are pushing boundaries, redefining leadership, and transforming the future of the arts.
Guided by Katie Villa, this conversation will delve into creativity, courage, and the challenges and triumphs of being a changemaker in today’s cultural world.
Expect bold ideas, honest reflections, and an empowering call to action for anyone passionate about the arts and social change.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a vital conversation with the women who are lighting the way.
This event is part of Reclaim Festival: a week-long celebration of women in the Arts. Click the link below to find out more.
Debbie Buccella
Debbie Bucella is the Chief Executive of Alibi, a much-loved arts charity in St Thomas that runs Emmanuel Hall—a creative space for children and the wider community.
Originally from Italy, Debbie began her career in finance, but after having her first child, she pivoted into the arts to do work that truly mattered to her. She helped establish the Bike Shed Theatre, co-programmed WOW Exeter, and has led Alibi through a period of big, positive change over the past two years.
When she’s not championing the arts, you’ll find her in the kitchen, out running, or knitting socks.
Alix Harris
Alix is the founder, Artistic Director and CEO of Beyond Face. Beyond Face mission is to be at the forefront of providing opportunities for artists of the Global Majority to live, work and
thrive in the South West theatre sector. Beyond Face’s aim is to reframe the narrative around what is perceived as quality and to bring focus to the region.
Artistically Alix is a writer, Director and Dramaturg, has directed for the Barbican- Theatre, Contact Theatre Manchester and Exeter Northcott and Last year Alix was the associate director on Gareth Farr’s play A Child of Science at Bristol Old Vic.
Alix has a track record of working internationally and is passionate about what we can learn and appreciate from one another through international collaborations and connections.
Alix previously worked as Drama lecturer for Exeter University and an associate lecturer for Plymouth University and Falmouth University.
Sara Rhodes
Sara is a dynamic cultural leader and creative producer with over 15 years’ experience delivering large-scale, inclusive arts events, site-specific work, and community-led productions. Her work champions co-creation, collaboration, and expanding access to high-quality arts and culture for all.
Currently CEO and Creative Director of Sterts Arts and Environmental Centre, Sara leads strategic and creative growth across arts, heritage, and environmental programmes, rooted in community voice. Previously at Theatre Royal Plymouth, she produced nationally recognised programmes such as Our Space and Funky Llama, successfully contributing to fundraising projects totalling over £2 million.
Sara is experienced in fundraising, building strategic partnerships, and facilitation, creating spaces where individuals and communities can thrive. Sara believes in creativity and community as powerful forces for positive social change.
Barnfield Theatre