Financial support is being offered for emerging theatre companies to cover production costs, as part of new sector-led schemes aimed at breaking down major barriers to young theatre companies aiming to showcase their work. The support will come in the form of interest-free loans, to be used to cover up-front costs during production. The loans are being offered as part of a new programme aiming to help emerging theatre companies to develop, by decreasing their limitations.
Named as The Artist Development Programme, developed by London’s New Diorama Theatre, the scheme includes a Cash Flow Fund to help young companies access the cash needed to tour or present work at festivals. This is particularly valuable to young theatre companies during times when box-office revenue may not be released until long after shows have finished. The lack of funds for these companies in these particular circumstances halt their work early on, making it difficult to flourish and build up an audience base.
The programme is hopeful it can break down the obstacles talented groups face in attempting to showcase their work. Other financial support also being offered will enable new and developing companies to perform for free at the New Diorama Theatre as part of the scheme, whilst also keeping all of the box office takings to invest in future productions. The Artist Development Programme also includes non-practical initiatives offering opportunities for personal development, as well as schemes aimed at improving equality, diversity and accessibility in theatre. This will include free rehearsal and development space, and European Theatre Travel Grants.
The programme supporting early-career artists will be delivered in partnership with 25 theatres across England and Wales, including Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter; Home, Manchester; The Other Room, Cardiff; and The Lowry, Salford. It is the culmination of five years’ work at New Diorama and will be seen in venues of varying size.
Support for emerging companies
Financial support is being offered for emerging theatre companies to cover production costs, as part of new sector-led schemes aimed at breaking down major barriers to young theatre companies aiming to showcase their work. The support will come in the form of interest-free loans, to be used to cover up-front costs during production. The loans are being offered as part of a new programme aiming to help emerging theatre companies to develop, by decreasing their limitations.
Named as The Artist Development Programme, developed by London’s New Diorama Theatre, the scheme includes a Cash Flow Fund to help young companies access the cash needed to tour or present work at festivals. This is particularly valuable to young theatre companies during times when box-office revenue may not be released until long after shows have finished. The lack of funds for these companies in these particular circumstances halt their work early on, making it difficult to flourish and build up an audience base.
The programme is hopeful it can break down the obstacles talented groups face in attempting to showcase their work. Other financial support also being offered will enable new and developing companies to perform for free at the New Diorama Theatre as part of the scheme, whilst also keeping all of the box office takings to invest in future productions. The Artist Development Programme also includes non-practical initiatives offering opportunities for personal development, as well as schemes aimed at improving equality, diversity and accessibility in theatre. This will include free rehearsal and development space, and European Theatre Travel Grants.
The programme supporting early-career artists will be delivered in partnership with 25 theatres across England and Wales, including Bike Shed Theatre, Exeter; Home, Manchester; The Other Room, Cardiff; and The Lowry, Salford. It is the culmination of five years’ work at New Diorama and will be seen in venues of varying size.