Experience Opportunity

OV Theatre Makers

A UK-wide free training programme for ages 18–30

Dive into the world of theatre-making and shape the future of theatre with OV Theatre Makers, a free, six-month training programme.

With the support of director Joseph Hancock and leading professional theatre makers, you’ll explore contemporary theatre-making practices to provide you with a toolkit of skills to begin developing your own work and career. Developing a broad range of theatre making skills from writing and devising to directing and producing you will then have the chance to showcase your work in a Scratch Night at a professional theatre venue.

Travel to London will be required and we’re able to support with costs if needed.

The programme will include:

  • A welcome day to get to know each other and the OV Theatre Makers team   
  • 13 masterclass days, Oct 2026–Feb 2027, led by director Joseph Hancock and guest practitioners from a range of theatre disciplines, such as writing, directing and producing. Previous guests include poet and playwright Inua Ellams, director Lyndsey Turner and West End producer Ameena Hamid
  • A Scratch Night showcasing participants’ work presented at the Studio at The Old Vic     
  • Bespoke workshops on networking, freelancing, how to pitch, collaboration and sustainability  
  • A theatre ticket allowance  
  • Tickets to two Old Vic productions 
  • Support with travel costs for the duration of the project if required 
  • Guidance and support from the OV Theatre Makers team and opportunities to meet OV Theatre Makers alumni
  • The opportunity to join our Emerging Theatre Professionals (ETP) network, which allows you to stay connected to The Old Vic through a variety of free workshops, networking events and tickets to see Old Vic productions. 
Requirements

Applicants must be aged 18–30 and based in the UK
You must be able to travel to London to take part. We are able to support with travel if required
You must be able to attend all dates
You must have attended state school when aged 11–16
As an alternative route to formalised education, OV Theatre Makers is not open to anyone who has already received or is receiving formal, degree level (or equivalent) arts training. This includes attending Drama School or any Theatre/Drama/Acting/Performance/Technical Theatre related degrees
You cannot be currently studying for any degree and cannot hold above a bachelor’s degree (e.g. Masters or PhD)
You cannot be working as a professional in theatre. This includes administrative, backstage, technical or creative roles.

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