Applications are now OPEN to join the 2026 cohort of SPRINGBOARD.

Springboard is our free training programme that aims to find, shape, inspire, champion and sustain the next generation of performers from underrepresented backgrounds.

This groundbreaking programme is a performance pathway into employment designed specifically to support young people aged 18-25yrs who live in West London, have zero to little formal drama training and are currently underrepresented in theatre.

Each year, 10 new trainees are enrolled in the programme, benefitting from a bursary that will support them while they take part in a wide range of development initiatives including performances, workshops, masterclasses, artist development and opportunities both on and off the stage.

Trainees receive hundreds of engagement opportunities over their attachment to the Lyric. They learn from leading industry practitioners in masterclasses led by Main House directors; Lyric Artistic Associates Nina Steiger, Tinuke Craig, Tanika Gupta, Philip McMahon and Good Teeth; and the Lyric’s Associate Director Nicholai La Barrie and Artistic Director Rachel O’Riordan.