new popular - callout for proposals

New Popular

awards of £3000 - £8000 to seed a new piece of theatre

We are looking to invest in the production of new work which connects with those who may not regularly engage with theatre in the South East*, work that is enticing and relevant; work that plays with new forms, that considers the priorities and needs of its audience.

This could encompass work made for village halls, seafronts, cafés, smart phones or for arts venues. It might be theatre that doesn’t look like theatre or theatre that feels contemporary but rooted in popular entertainment.

We’re looking for the most promising, bold, mischievous yet considered ideas that have the potential to result in compelling theatre while furthering the ambitions and expectations of all partners. We are hoping to support a range of different approaches working with theatre makers from local emerging companies to experienced, international artists.

A small number of investments of £3000-£8000 will be made that test new approaches and seed ideas for new pieces of theatre that seeks to achieve these ambitions.

*open to South East regions, this does not include Greater London boroughs

Please see the full brief below for more information.

making a proposal

Please download and complete the application form and equality & diversity form (available below) and submit by email accompanied with an outline budget to Eloise Talbot-Hammond.

Closing date for submissions: Mon 15 May at 9am.

Proposals will be selected by a small curatorial panel.

Decisions will be based on:

  • the artist idea
  • the approach to engaging new audiences, both its practicality and authenticity
  • the depth of the partnership and how far the project supports mutual ambitions

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted week commencing Mon 12 June.

Those shortlisted may be asked for further information at this stage.

download the full brief, proposal form and equality & diversity form

The film below showcases some previous New Popular projects.

Sign off

A head shot of Katy Potter smiling

If you would like to talk through your idea with us at any stage, we would welcome that conversation; contact Katy using the details below.

Katy Potter

Role
Senior Producer
Telephone
01252 745447