Applications are open until 1 April for new emerging artist development programme, LAUNCHPAD.
Offered by The Watermill Theatre and associate company Wildcard, the scheme will support emerging theatre companies developing a new work with free rehearsal space, mentorship and financial investment capped at £2,000.
Through dramaturgical and artistic guidance and networking opportunities, it is planned that the company will forge an onward life for the work they have created.
Wildcard artistic director James Meteyard said, “we’re thrilled to be partnering with The Watermill on LAUNCHPAD. Artist Development has always been at the heart of Wildcard; we are a home for emerging artists.
"LAUNCHPAD embodies this ethos and sits alongside our recently announced Training Ground which provides affordable workshops where artists can hone their craft. Intended to be a responsive programme that adapts to the needs of each company, we hope that LAUNCHPAD will go some way towards helping these organisations take flight out of this pandemic and find sure footing in the new world.
"The Watermill has been a place where we have developed our work in a safe and creative space. We started ELECTROLYTE’s journey in their rehearsal room, R&Ding the piece in its early days. It was this support, along with a cash injection, that enabled us to realise a production that was a step up for our company and has led to many wonderful opportunities.
"We are over the moon to now come full circle and work with the Watermill again to be able to offer similar support to four emerging companies during these challenging times.”
Application details and the form for LAUNCHPAD are available on the Watermill Theatre and Wildcard Theatre web sites.