2026 marks Stage One’s 50th anniversary of supporting theatre producers, particularly those with a strong focus on entrepreneurship and underrepresented voices in the industry.
To celebrate this milestone, Stage One has announced 5 at 50, a career-defining opportunity for five exceptional early-career producers. The scheme forms part of a year-long programme of events recognising the charity’s lasting impact on UK theatre.
5 at 50 will provide one-to-one mentoring from leading industry figures over 12 months, alongside a £20,000 bursary to cover living and professional development costs. In addition, Stage One will pledge £50,000 in matched funds towards each producer’s next commercial venture.
Joseph Smith, CEO of Stage One, said:
“Mentoring has always been at the heart of Stage One across our existing Bursary, Placement and Bridge the Gap schemes. This new initiative takes it a step further by partnering talented early-career producers with some of the UK’s top theatre producers. It’s designed for those who are truly ready to take the next leap in their careers by producing in the West End or large-scale National Tours. Over 50 years, Stage One has proudly nurtured the next generation of theatre leaders and makers. This milestone gives us the perfect opportunity to offer something truly unique – expert guidance, financial support, investment and real producing experience on stages in the West End and across the country.”
Applications for 5 at 50 will open in January, when the five mentor producers will also be announced. The programme is open to producers who have previously participated in or been supported by Stage One and aims to help those ready to move from small and midscale productions to the West End or national touring.
The initiative is supported by Ian McKellen, Sam Mathias and ATG Entertainment through the McKellen Fund.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
