Introduction to Directing

For groups of very early career directors from backgrounds currently under-represented in theatre

Introduction to Directing, supported by RTYDS (Regional Theatre Young Director Scheme) is an opportunity for people – over 18 years of age – who are interested in finding out whether or not a career as a theatre director is for them.

‘It is aimed at people from communities currently under-represented in the theatre industry because of social, gender, financial, ethnic, cultural, or educational disadvantage or disability’ (RTYDS.co.uk/introduction-to-directing/).

Participants should live near to the Oldham Coliseum Theatre (within 25 miles) and have a specific interest in directing rather than in acting or any other theatre craft.

What will the project involve?

We will offer five participants the opportunity to spend five consecutive days eight hours per day) at Oldham Coliseum Theatre. The project will be led by our Associate Director, Chris Lawson, and aims to be fun and informative. It will provide a practical introduction to the role of the director, sharing the necessary skills of the role through practical exercises, helping you develop your professional network and outlining possible career paths.

Across the week the participant will spend time with different departments within the Coliseum exploring how they work with a director, including Marketing, Production, and Technical and Stage Management teams. You will also spend time with a professional writer, designer, youth groups and work in a professional rehearsal room. You will have the opportunity to watch professional productions at Oldham Coliseum Theatre and other theatres across the North West. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to discuss your career aspirations and explore your next steps.

When is the project?

You will be allocated one of the following weeks:

Week commencing: Monday 9 May

Week commencing: Monday 16 May

Week commencing: Monday 23 May

Week commencing: Monday 30 May

Week commencing: Monday 6 June

In addition to one of the weeks above, there will be a training day on Friday 6 May.

How do I apply?

All applicants must be aged 18 or over and not be in full-time education. Please note: you will receive a bursary of £290 on completion of the week to cover all expenses.

• In an expression of interest letter, no longer than one side of A4, tell us about yourself and how you will benefit from this opportunity. Tell us why you are applying, what you hope to gain and any experience you have within the performing arts (as Director or in any other area). Please note that if you have no experience in the arts this will not count against you, please tell us instead about your most recent experiences in education, employment and volunteering.
• Fill in the Equal Opportunities Form. (Download here)
• Send your expression of interest and the equal opportunities form to RoseSergent@coliseum.org.uk with RTYDS in the subject line. In the body of the email please include your name, age, address, employment status, alongside your top 3 preferred weeks from those shown above.

The closing date for applications is Monday 11 April at 5pm.

Informal interviews will take place on Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 April.