We know what collaboration is - the pooling of ideas and talents of creative people from different disciplines to produce work which could not be envisaged or carried out by one person alone. Collaboration is partnership, whether it's in the setting of a pre-existing poem, or the writing and staging of an opera. It will only work if there is an overall vision to which everyone can relate, if there is equality of input and mutual respect.

For me, what is really exciting is the process, which at its best involves total trust between participants. It gives insights into the creative world and an understanding of the craft of other people, and can be the basis of enduring friendships.