TESTING GROUND 3 – PULSE 2019 Application open

The New Wolsey Theatre is committed to increasing the representation of D/deaf and disabled people in our audiences, in our workforce, and on our stages.

We support and showcase new work and new ideas from contemporary theatre makers through the Pulse artist development programme. In 2017, we introduced Testing Ground, a seed commission programme for original work from D/deaf and disabled artists.  We are keen to develop these artists and work, and ensure the aesthetics of access are embedded in the creative process.

Over the last two years, we have invested in and provided development support to nine projects, several of which went on to be presented during the annual Pulse Festival: Nicola Werenowska’s Invisible, Rachel Bagshaw’s Shape of the Pain, Kiruna Stamell and Rhona MacKenzie’s Disability Sex Archive, Invisible Flash’s The Blind Traveller, Simon Startin’s Inspiration Porn and Brick Wall Ensemble’s Henry V.

‘Not only has Testing Ground given me invaluable time, space and resources to begin a new piece of work which I’m really excited about, but the process has been transformative in terms of exploring my personal relationship to my disability in my artistic practice and developing a neurodiverse led practice.’  – Nicola Werenowska, writer of Invisible – Testing Ground 1 commission.

Applications are now open for new Testing Ground commissions, leading to a presentation of work in Pulse Festival 2019.  These commissions will vary according to the needs of your project and could include financial, dramaturgical, marketing and other in-kind support.
How do you apply? It’s easy. All you need to do is submit a page of A4 or equivalent video clip explaining the idea, what you’ve achieved up to now and your aspirations for developing the piece.

To apply, or for more details, contact Jamie Beddard, Agent for Change: JBeddard@wolseytheatre.co.uk.
The deadline for submissions is Wednesday 12th December 2018 at 10am.

Listen to 2018 Testing Ground performers speaking about their work on the Pulsation Podcast: (Be advised, there is some bad language involved)

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