Today, Sheffield Theatres launches its Open Submissions Programme, inviting artists from across the region to submit productions for programming for February 2021. Led by RTYDS Associate Artistic Director Anthony Lau and a panel of artists, audience members and theatre representatives, the selection process will culminate in a short programme in the Crucible Theatre championing the work of Yorkshire artists.
As part of the launch of the programme, Sheffield Theatres is convening an online meeting on Monday 30 November to welcome artists, audiences and Sheffield residents to come together to discuss the city, culture and what they want to see on the Crucible stage.
A panel of 12 volunteers will be appointed with the aim of reflecting the wide range of experiences of people across Sheffield. Following a series of workshops, the group will then co-curate the programme of work, with recordings of the selection meetings available for anyone to view to develop their understanding of the programming process.
Robert Hastie, Artistic Director of Sheffield Theatres said:
‘A key element of our work is collaboration, and we are incredibly excited about embarking on this journey with local artists and audiences. I’m really looking forward to seeing what Anthony Lau and the panel select. This process will be open and transparent, and I’m delighted that we can offer this window into programming for anyone interested in learning more.’
Anthony Lau, RTYDS Associate Artistic Director said:
‘Our focus is on creating a brilliant programme of work, from Yorkshire artists, with local people. Our brief about the type of work we are interested in is deliberately very broad, from comedy to music, new writing to devised work. What is most important is that the work is local, that we get to see the rich offerings of Yorkshire artists and that the programme is reflective of the people who live, work and play in this city.’
Anyone interested in submitting work or being part of the selection panel is encouraged to join the online meeting on Monday 30 November, which is ticketed and free to attend.
Submissions can be made from 20 November until 7 December on our For Artists pages.