New Diorama Theatre’s award-winning artist development programme, launched in early 2016, was described by Exeunt as “the most exciting artist development plan Britain has ever seen”. On 30th November, NDT are launching their updated offering for early and mid-career theatre companies – without question their most exciting yet.
Headlining New Diorama’s new programme is a major new partnership with Underbelly. Each year, for the next three years, the Untapped Award presented by Underbelly and New Diorama will support nine companies – three each year – removing the barriers that prevent some of the most talented groups from showcasing their work at the Fringe.
New Diorama’s Artistic & Executive Director, David Byrne, says “this is genuinely the best and most exciting opportunity for theatre ensembles and companies wanting to present their work at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Alongside a £3,000 investment in each chosen group, they’ll receive a great slot at Underbelly – with no venue deposit or guarantee, press support paid for, a flyering team, free marketing support and an enhanced box office split. We’re even going to pay for access performances for every selected group. We really believe it’ll be game-changing for the successful early and mid-career companies selected”.
Marina Dixon and Vikki Mizon, Heads of Programming, Underbelly, said “Underbelly is delighted to be working in partnership with New Diorama Theatre to award three outstanding theatre companies the fantastic opportunity to present their shows at the Fringe. This award is one of the best opportunities for the Edinburgh Fringe, making a run in Edinburgh achievable for new ensemble work, allowing new productions to be presented at the highest level.
Applications for the Untapped Award presented by Underbelly and New Diorama will be open on the 30th November 2017 and close on 28th January 2018.
One of the biggest additions to the Artist Development Programme is a partnership with Green Rooms Hotel. With so many of New Diorama’s supported companies coming from outside of London, and accommodation being a major prohibitive factor in companies making the trip, the partnership will mean NDT can offer an allocation of rehearsal space, free rooms and, when they are exhausted, a discounted offer of £15 a bed for artists and groups.
