Are you disabled or deaf and interested in getting involved with the theatre? Well, you now have the chance thanks to a new project part of which is taking place in Sheffield.
Sheffield Theatres is co-hosting three introductory courses for deaf and disabled people who are interested in pursuing careers in directing, producing and writing.
These courses are aimed at people right at the beginning of their careers, and no previous experience is necessary The courses will be free to attend, and there is lots of practical and financial support available.
They have been set up in co-ordination with Ramps On The Moon which is committed to “enriching the stories we tell and the way we tell them by normalising the presence of deaf and disabled people both on and off stage”, and Leeds Playhouse.
The writing course will take place at Leeds Playhouse, led by Leanna Benjamin (Artist for Change and Writer in Residence) and Rio Matchett (Furnace Coordinator). The first session takes place on 22 February 22. The directing course will take place at Sheffield Theatres, led by Ben Wilson (Agent for Change) and Anthony Lau (Associate Artistic Director), starting on 22 March 2022. The producing course will take place at Leeds Playhouse, led by Paul Wilshaw (Agent for Change) and Ben Rothera (Freelance Producer) and also starts on 22 March 2022. All courses have eight sessions taking place on Tuesdays until June.
The organisers describe it as:“An incredible opportunity to work with industry professionals in a way that’s tailored to you. You’ll work with them over several months to learn and grow in your course and will come together for a sharing week, where you’ll meet and work with other artists like you.”
To apply, please send an expression of interest to: t.bryson@sheffieldtheatres.co.uk AND rio.matchett@leedsplayhouse.org.uk (please ensure you send your email to both addresses regardless of which course you are applying for). The deadline is
14 February 2022 .
Your application can be up to half a page for a text-based application or up to 3 minutes for an audio or video application. Your expression of interest should include:
Your name and pronouns.
Which group you are applying for.
Why you are interested in pursuing a career as a director / producer / writer.
A few words about a piece of theatre that means something to you.
Support is available for the application process. Please add on your email any support you need to make this application process more accessible for you, and they will do everything they can to help.
Find details of the course and introductory videos here.
