Emma Taylor

I am a freelance heritage professional, dedicated to supporting museums to connect with communities and tell stories that matter. I am experienced in (i) oral history interviewing and museum audio production (ii) interpretation and exhibition development, (iii) co-curation and co-production; (iv) project management; (v) training & facilitation (vi) securing grant funding; (vii) audience development; and (viii) charity sector leadership. I am based in Hampshire and work throughout the south of England and the Midlands. I am passionate about the power of museums to promote wellbeing and place-shaping. I have an affinity to the Solent region and especially enjoy helping a wide variety of people to flourish through community-led participation.

I am an actor, writer, director and workshop leader based in Salisbury. As an actor I have worked for over 20 years in theatre, touring nationally and also in the West End. I am currently developing a play called ‘Becoming Simone’ with Mayflower Studios, Forest Forge and Stage Door. In 2023 I wrote and produced a short film, ‘Living Loud’. This was selected for screening at Portsmouth Short Cuts Festival. I am also a Presentation and Communication coach, having worked across many sectors including finance, Ed Tech and charities. I have also designed and led training in communication using roleplay as a learning tool.

I am a musician, songwriter and creative practitioner inspired by the landscapes, folklore and communities of the New Forest and the surrounding counties of Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire. My practice centres on bringing people together through music. Current projects include hosting regular ‘From Story to Song’ workshops exploring local folklore and songs, facilitating ‘Songwriters’ Circles’ and workshops at Coda Music & Arts Trust, and directing The Chicken Soup community choir and ‘Drop In and Sing’ sessions across BCP, Dorset and Hampshire. I also work in creative development with children and young adults, supporting confidence, creativity and self-expression through songwriting and music-making.