The National Theatre, in collaboration with the renowned creative platform It’s Nice That, has launched a compelling new photography exhibition titled The Reset: three hours, three photographers, three theatres. This free exhibition will be hosted at the Lyttelton Lounge from June 27, 2024, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the backstage world of theatre production.
The Reset focuses on the crucial three-hour period before a performance, known as the “reset,” when backstage crews and stagehands meticulously prepare the stage. This often unseen aspect of theatre is brought to life through the lenses of three photographers: Laura McCluskey, Max Miechowski, and Callum Su. Their work captures the intricate preparations for Underdog: The Other Other Brontë in the Dorfman Theatre, Nye in the Olivier Theatre, and London Tide in the Lyttelton Theatre.
“We are thrilled to be working with It’s Nice That and these photographers to spotlight our backstage and off-stage teams. There are so many hidden highly skilled roles within theatre that deserve the spotlight. We hope this collaboration will inspire the next generation of talent to find out more about the world behind the stage.” – Kate Varah, Executive Director and Co-Chief Executive at the National Theatre
The Photographers
Laura McCluskey: A London-based photographer, director, and visual artist, McCluskey’s work spans fashion, portrait, and documentary projects. She is known for capturing the beauty of everyday life and human connections. Her work has been showcased at prestigious venues such as Tate Modern, Palm Photo Prize, and Portrait of Britain.
Max Miechowski: Miechowski’s photography centres on themes of connection and community, often through long-form projects rooted in portraiture. His work has been exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery, Copeland Gallery, and internationally at Paris Photo and Les Champs Libres.
Callum Su: A British-Chinese photographer based in London, Su explores landscapes, details, and portraiture with a sensitive narrative approach. A graduate of Nottingham Trent University, he has exhibited widely across the UK and taught photography in New York.
About It’s Nice That
It’s Nice That is a global media company dedicated to inspiring the creative community. With over 17 years of experience, they reach millions of people monthly through storytelling, insights, and community-building activities. Their collaboration with the National Theatre highlights their commitment to celebrating and supporting creativity in all its forms.
The Exhibition
The exhibition will be held at the Lyttelton Lounge within the National Theatre, located on the South Bank in London. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, with Waterloo Station nearby. The exhibition is free to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for both theatre enthusiasts and photography lovers to explore the backstage magic of theatre production. By offering this detailed and engaging look into the backstage world of theatre, The Reset promises to be a captivating exhibition that highlights the essential yet often overlooked roles that bring theatrical productions to life.
