Culture is at the crux of creativity. Yet all too often as an industry, culture is not treated as a tangible input. If creativity is a muscle, then you need to exercise that muscle every day. With that in mind, BITE is asking industry leaders to share the experiences which have positively impacted their creative outlook and how they have influenced their work. Kate Thrumble, SVP, Head of People & Experience - EMEA & LATAM at VaynerMedia shares how theatre has impacted her approach and broadened her imagination.

In the world of Human Resources, or People and Experience as we like to call it, creativity might not seem like an essential skill. However, my experience enrolling in local amateur dramatics has completely transformed my perspective and professional outlook.

Initially, my interest in it stemmed from a desire to explore a hobby outside of work and meet new people. As a mother of two, I get very little opportunity to escape reality, and it seemed like the perfect way to do just that. I was also signing up to commit to people, which meant I couldn’t make excuses (like that one time I signed up for the gym). Little did I know that this seemingly unrelated activity would have such a profound effect on my career.

The biggest thing I’ve taken away from my experience in local theatre is how much it enhanced my communication skills. In theatre, effective communication is vital for conveying emotions, intentions, and messages to the audience. Similarly, in People and Experience, clear and empathetic communication is crucial for building trust, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment. Through acting in various roles and interacting with fellow actors, I've honed my ability to articulate ideas, listen actively (acting is reacting!), and adapt my communication style to different audiences.

This awakening moment also led me to research how we could use acting techniques to help with presentation skills. We’ve since gone on to partner with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), using their actors as coaches which helped us become more confident, assured presenters for big pitches and client meetings.

The beautiful thing about theatre is that there are no limits to imagination. Each performance requires innovative approaches to bring characters and stories to life. It encourages a mindset of creativity and flexibility. It’s helped me flex my creative muscles, whether it’s designing engaging employee training programs, implementing retention strategies, or brainstorming new ways we can bring learning and development to life. Not only has it positively impacted my own life, but helps me inspire others to get out of their comfort zones and connect with their work.

Theatre has also instilled in me a sense of empathy and understanding towards diverse perspectives. In acting, one must embody characters with different backgrounds, experiences, and motivations, which has deepened my appreciation for the complexities of human behaviour.

It’s instrumental in my role, where understanding and connecting with employees on a personal level is important for fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Finally, it’s provided me with a valuable network of diverse individuals who are different ages and from different walks of life. It’s helped to expand my horizons and expose me to different viewpoints.

The biggest challenge with this newfound hobby? When I had to sing a solo. It’s worth adding here that I failed the oral part of my grade 1 piano exam so, Taylor Swift, I am not. I was terrified at the prospect of singing in front of about 150 people, but there was no backing out as I had committed to the group and myself. With some singing lessons from a great teacher, I did it. I can’t say I would like to repeat it, but I did it. Now, when I am faced with daunting tasks, I remind myself of that moment and how it felt to achieve what I thought I never would.

As I continue to pursue my passion for theatre alongside my career in People and Experience, I am grateful for the transformative impact it has had on my personal and professional growth. I am also trying to rally a group of VaynerMedia employees together to set up our own internal theatre group as part of our culture club…. watch this space!