Upstate Theatre Project is a community-engaged performing arts organisation adhering to collective and collaborative approaches in keeping with principles of cultural democracy. Upstate was founded in 1997 and has pursued a collaborative, participatory practice since its inception. Upstate’s workshop programme is designed as a place where people can collectively work in collaboration with artists to realise performances based on themes, ideas, and issues of mutual interest. Upstate always welcomes ideas from the community.

In the weeks prior to ICAF 2014, artists from both Upstate Theatre will work on a residency with RWT to create a project in the southside of Rotterdam. Lodging for this Rotterdam-Irish collaboration will be provided by Atelier Tarwewijk.