Stage One has announced the 12 UK producers selected for its Columbia Exchange Programme 2026, marking a milestone during the organisation’s 50th anniversary year.
Delivered in partnership with Columbia University, the programme will take place in New York from 14 to 18 September, offering participants an immersive series of workshops exploring every aspect of producing for Broadway.
Now in its sixth year, the exchange has become a central part of Stage One’s development work, supporting emerging producers with international experience and industry connections.
The 2026 cohort includes Andrei Cotocu, Andrew Keatley and Andy Bewley, alongside Annys Whyatt and Eliza Larkey.
They are joined by Hope Ward Brown, Jennifer Leigh and Kate McKewon, as well as María Inés Olmedo, Maryann Wright, Oliver Bradstock and Pascal Ultee.
All participants are alumni of Stage One initiatives and represent a diverse range of producing experience across the UK theatre sector, from commercial West End productions to new writing and touring work.
During the programme, the group will receive an intensive introduction to the practicalities of Broadway producing, including US labour laws, unions, fundraising, copyright and touring.
Joseph Smith, Chief Executive of Stage One, comments, “Stage One is delighted to be hosting our sixth Producer Exchange in partnership with Columbia University, creating a valuable opportunity for aspiring commercial theatre producers to connect with their peers in New York. The UK and US have a long and exciting history of creative collaboration, and we hope this programme will spark new relationships, fresh ideas and future commercial projects.”
The Columbia Exchange continues to play a key role in Stage One’s mission to nurture the next generation of producers, helping to build skills, networks and opportunities on an international scale.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
