If you’ve harboured dreams of performing in the West End or directing London’s next greatest show then read on!
Breaking into theatre – especially in London – might seem like a daunting career path but our friends over at Park Theatre have various schemes encouraging creatives to get involved with all things stage-related. No matter whether you’re looking to take your script-writing one step further or prefer more of a hands-on role, here are three different routes that could see you on Park Theatre’s stages and beyond in the future.
Script Accelerator 2019
Park Theatre runs an annual Script Accelerator programme to propel new plays onto stage. Although Script Accelerator has stopped accepting 2019 entries, there’s nothing stopping you from putting together your pitch for 2020. As part of the programme, Park Theatre’s team work to spend four intensive weeks supporting emerging practitioners with their unique writing and progression initiative, culminating in a public showcase. And if you want some inspiration of exactly what the theatre is looking for, come along to the 2019 public showcase on Sun 24 November (with tickets just £8). Here, you’ll be able to watch the finalists’ performances and get an idea of where the programme could take your big idea. After the showcase, many of the Script Accelerator plays from previous years have found homes on the Park90 stage including Time and Tide by James McDermott, which is playing in Park90 from 5 – 29 Feb 2020 (more info and tickets from £14.50 here).
The Prism Project
If you identify as BAME and want to get involved with the theatre world then it’s definitely worth reading up on Park Theatre’s Prism Project. Because if you’re an artist who’s Black, Asian or part of a minority ethnic group then Park Theatre offers the space to rehearse your project free of charge and a professional theatre to stage a reading to an invited audience. They’ll also throw in a listing on The Prism Project webpage, as well as some organic social media support. The project is spearheaded by Park Theatre’s administrator, Melissa Bonnelame, to address the need within the theatre industry to provide support and professional opportunities to BAME creatives. The Prism Project is a rolling programme and is open to submissions throughout the year, subject to availability.
Park Theatre’s Youth Board
If you want to help shape the next generation of theatre, then Park Theatre’s Youth Board could be the perfect spot for you. The board is a place for aspiring creatives aged 16 – 26 who are interested in shaping what Park Theatre has to offer. They have their say on classes and courses, with leadership opportunities. Get involved at the start and who knows where it could take you! Better yet, it’s free to join – all you need to do is email here.
This article was sponsored by Park Theatre. Find Park Theatre at Clifton Terrace, Finsbury Park, London N4 3JP. Nearest station: Finsbury Park. Read more via their website.