New Producers Spotlight: Charles Kouasseu

We’re continuing our New Producers 2025 spotlight series with a closer look at the emerging creatives learning all about the joys and challenges of producing, delivered with China Plate Theatre.

Today, meet Charles Kouasseu – a Walsall-based creative balancing big ideas, bold ambitions, and about three different lives at once. From producing shows to coding and creating new payment models for the arts!

A first cultural memory

“My first cultural memory was a Bamiléké Tribute Party. I was 6.”

Culture as theatre and fairness

“My most memorable cultural experience is Bamiléké Funerals, because they are staged theatrically. Although not organised by professionals, several cultural dance groups perform nearby. At the same time, spectators go from one scene to the other, watching and joining in whenever they want to. Additionally, you only pay when you are happy with the performance, not before, which to me seems to be a fairer approach.”

Why Charles applied for New Producers

“I applied for the Producers Programme to gain the skills needed to produce my shows professionally, network with other professionals, find some jobs, collaborate and progress my career.”

Learning through example

“Learning about the steps and stories behind the concrete examples of the produced shows. Talking About The Fire, in an inspiring model that I want to follow.”

What Charles values in the Black Country

“The opportunity for support and the willingness from professionals to help.”

Looking ahead

“I’d love to eventually have others perform my shows.”

And finally, a fun fact…

“At the moment, I am working at a car factory, I am on a Coding Course, and I am creating a Name-Your-Price payment system for art products.”

Charles brings together heritage, tech, theatre and a great approach to how we value creative work. We’re excited to support his journey through New Producers 2025!