HighTide

What are the Westacre Theatre Bursary Awards?

For over 20 years, Westacre Theatre's esteemed Bursary Scheme has offered around 8-10 privately funded, residential placements per year for performing arts undergraduates, graduates & early-career artists, giving them the chance to gain hands-on experience in a professional, rural theatre, working on multiple productions, receiving mentoring, and developing their skills. “The scheme is an ideal opportunity for emerging actors to bridge the gap between training and the profession. For me, its key strength is providing professional experience that leaves recipients much better equipped to step into a professional career.” (Actor Nigel Hastings - Patron)

Who are we?

Westacre Theatre is an independent, rural, theatre and arts centre based in the village of West Acre, Norfolk. Housed in a converted historic chapel, and with an expansive outdoor auditorium for the summer months, we are known for championing, emerging artists and innovative performance, while also serving our local community. The theatre provides a platform for professional productions, artist development, workshops and residencies, with a strong focus on accessibility, participation and nurturing creative talent. Patrons: Sir Stephen Fry, Sir Anthony Gormley & Nigel Hastings.

How does it work?

We audition and interview bursary candidates to join our highly respected theatre company on 2/3 full-scale productions, which take place during our outdoor summer season. These productions run either consecutively or in repertory. Successful applicants will also gain hands-on experience helping to deliver young people’s workshops, hosting musical events, taking part in front-of-house duties and all the other essential “roll your sleeves up” jobs that keep the theatre running smoothly. Whilst bursary recipients benefit hugely from the guidance of our directors, musicians, technical experts and extended team, all with extensive professional experience and industry expertise, we place huge value on the fresh perspectives and creative energy brought by new and emerging artists. It’s a fully immersive opportunity to develop skills, work as part of a professional team, and experience every aspect of theatre life.

And Finally...

The Westacre Summer Bursary has long been a powerful springboard for emerging actors, musicians, dancers and technicians. Many former bursary students have gone on to successful careers across theatre, musical theatre, film and the wider creative industries, often citing their time at Westacre as a defining early experience. 2026 Summer Season will be announced ASAP – watch this space but expect high energy colourful versions of well-known classic pieces, told with an effusion of music, and always a quirky twist… Bursary Awards are designed to cover your expenses and are paid weekly. Placements take place from Mid-July to the August Bank Holiday weekend. Accommodation is included where needed. Auditions are in person and will take place on Saturday 18th April.

For any questions contact sadie@westacretheatre.com Please note: because this form asks for a file upload (headshots), you will need to sign in with a Google account to submit your response. 2026 Applications are open NOW

A paid summer work and cultural exchange opportunity for creatives aged 18+.

Camp America offers a paid summer opportunity to live and work at an American summer camp for 9–12 weeks, with performing arts and creative roles available across camps in the USA. This is more than just work experience - it’s a chance to use your creative skills while living the full summer camp life!

Creatives from all backgrounds are placed in roles where they can teach, lead and inspire young people through acting, singing, dance, music, technical theatre and production, while also being part of a wider camp community. Alongside your role, you’ll take part in classic camp activities, build international friendships and experience everyday life in the USA. While we work with specialist theatre and performing arts camps, performing arts roles are available across many different camps, not just specialist ones.

This opportunity is ideal for those who:

Camps generally run from mid-Jun to mid-August – but this can vary by camp and location.

Blown Fuse Theatre

East Sussex college lewes

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Our Level 1 Diploma is an inspiring first step into the world of music and performing arts.

Our UAL Award in Music (Level 1) is an inspiring first step into the world of music creation. We will be studying how to create music, utilise studio equipment, work collaboratively with others, and plan, develop and complete creative projects across a range of different genres, media and uses. 

Picking a different focus every half term, we will be delving into the world of sound effects, creating a multi-genre class album, getting to grips with studio and stage equipment, and investigating the sound and music of film and video games.

Regardless of whether you’re a beginner with a strong interest in music, a well-practised musician or a keen home studio enthusiast, there will be something here to sink your creative teeth into. 

Revoluton Arts

Read me aloud