“It’s changed my life” – meet the community decision makers shaping the arts and finding themselves

by Hannah Hiles

The Big Feast isn’t just a celebration of outdoor arts – it’s a celebration of the people who live here. Every year, Appetite’s community decision makers and Supper Club members help shape the festival, from planning performances to influencing the experiences on offer.

Their input ensures that the programme reflects the city’s character, creativity and community spirit, making the festival feel truly owned by the people of Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme.

“It’s not about us deciding what we think people would like,” says Ruby Nixon, Appetite’s community engagement coordinator. “It’s about giving local people ownership – making sure the work really reflects them.”

Ruby supports people across Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle to get involved in shaping arts and cultural events that speak to their communities. Whether it’s voting on performances, going on inspiration trips or helping to judge creative work, decision makers are at the heart of it all.

“People often tell us they’re doing things they never imagined possible,” she says. “New friendships blossom, confidence grows.

“They can see the direct impact of their choices in their own hometowns, because the people who know best what Stoke and Newcastle communities want are the people who live in Stoke and Newcastle. Their ideas and suggestions are invaluable in creating a programme that feels like it truly belongs here.”

This summer, decision makers have travelled beyond the city on Appetite Take Aways – curated trips to arts festivals around the UK to gather fresh inspiration.

From the vibrant An Indian Summer in Leicester to the seaside magic of the SO Festival in Skegness, they returned home buzzing with ideas which have already paid off. One of the standout acts spotted on a Take Away – Ancient Giants by Inspirate – appeared at The Big Feast in 2025.

Sue Johnson, 56, from Tunstall, got involved with Appetite 18 months ago and has already seen her confidence grow since becoming a community decision maker last year.

 “I’d never done anything like it before, but it sounded really interesting,” she says. “I enjoy meeting new people, doing new things, and the activities we do are so varied. The perks are a good bonus too.

“I particularly enjoyed the Skegness festival. I was a bit nervous about travelling on the trains and going a long distance, but the three other people I travelled with were so kind and reassuring. Appetite has given me more confidence, skills and determination to do things I’ve never done before.”

For Penkhull-based Ayad Al-Ani, 51, Appetite has been a part of his life for over a decade – having been involved since the first Big Feast in 2014.

“I wanted to contribute to shaping cultural and creative opportunities in my community,” he says, “and I was inspired by Appetite’s vision of connecting people with art in meaningful and accessible ways.”

His involvement has transformed both his personal and professional life. “Before Appetite, I thought art was superficial,” he says. “Now I’ve gained new spectrums of aesthetic values and enjoyment.

“Socially, I’ve found myself among an amazing network of creators and performers. Professionally, I’ve been able to use my skills on advisory groups and trusteeships, and even deliver services through my business. I see myself as an advocate for the arts, and as a peer educator for parts of our community that can feel alienated and isolated.”

Jason Caplin, 52, of Blythe Bridge, found that becoming a community decision maker has opened doors he never expected. Over the past year, he has grown in confidence, from connecting with others to judging artwork, something he hadn’t been interested in since school.

“What I like most is the chance to try new things and be part of what’s coming next,” he says. “It’s changed my life in a way in that it’s given me a chance to meet new people – something I wouldn’t have had the courage to do before. I’m appreciating things I never would have thought of getting involved in.”

Appetite director Rachel Adams says that the project’s inclusive approach is about more than just programming. “This is your feast,” she says. “We want people to get involved, to step into the space if they want to – and to feel like they belong there. One of the most important things is representation, whether that’s on stage or behind the scenes. People need to see themselves.”

The next cycle of community decision makers begins this September, and Rachel is keen to welcome new faces. “We don’t want any of our groups to feel like a clique,” she adds. “We’re trying to remove the labels we put on ourselves – and invite people in. There are so many voices in this city. They deserve to be heard.”

Want to shape the future of arts in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme? Become a community decision maker. No experience needed – just enthusiasm. Come along to our ‘Brew and Review’ on Tuesday 14 October full details here. Or get in touch: ruby@appetite.org.uk