Our stage may be silent but we’re continuing to find ways to support theatre-makers and connect with audiences. Here’s what we’re doing:
The Time is Now: Digital Commission
We’ve invited South West-based artists to apply for one of five £1000 commissions to create a piece of work that can be presented in a format that people can enjoy remotely. This call went out to artists working in any art form, with the only requirement being that proposed projects should look to tackle current challenges such as: supporting the most vulnerable in our communities; parents who have to home school their children; the importance of keeping socially connected; advocating for the arts as an essential part of society; and celebrating key workers.
Find out more about the 5 The Time Is Now projects here.
Hyperlocal Commission
We have also partnered with other organisations in the city to offer 10 micro-commissions for free-lance artists based in Devon and Cornwall. Hyperlocal invites artists to explore the hyperlocal of their immediate domestic environment. Deadline: 7 April, 5pm. More info can be found here.
Associate Artists
Our Associate Artists are having to rethink all of their projects and we’ll support them throughout this period, offering some financial relief and ongoing mentoring. Richard Chappell, Jack Dean and Viv Gordon have each been developing extraordinary projects that we will continue to champion. Find out more about our Associate Artists here.
Early Career Artists & Producers
Our support for Early Career Artists and Producers through the Exeter Northcott Futures programme continues with regular digital hang-outs and be-spoke support, and these groups hope to reconvene to host a first Scratch Night in November.
Theatre at Home
Some of the shows that were due to come to our theatre have been recorded and are now available to view from home. We’ll continue to share these opportunities, as well as other streaming options from our friends and partners on our social media channels. Streamed shows that were due to come to the Northcott include: The Habit of Art, now available at Original Online, and BalletBoyz’s Deluxe, available as part of the BBC’s Culture in Quarantine programme.
Exeter Community Wellbeing Initiative
We’ll support this new initiative to provide practical help and support for local people during this time. Keep an eye on our website and social media for the latest news and opportunities.
Theatre Quiz
We’ve been running a regular theatre quiz to help us keep in touch with our team of wonderful volunteers, and we’re now planning to move this online in the near future. Brush up on your theatre knowledge and get ready of an online meet up and Theatre Quiz coming soon!
