A Message from Our Executive Director
When Theatre and Dance NI reduced membership fees in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, it was with one goal in mind, to support our people and sector through one of the most challenging times we have faced. We have kept those reduced rates in place because we know how difficult the past few years have been for so many of our colleagues, artists, and organisations.
However, as we look to the future, it has become clear that we need to update our membership model to ensure the sustainability of the services and opportunities we provide. From 15th September 2025, membership fees will be increasing for the first time since 2020, allowing us to continue delivering opportunities, training, advocacy, bursaries, networking, and sector support at the level our community deserves.
Alongside our updated membership model, from 01 January 2026, we are introducing a new six-month membership rule for bursary and development programme applications. This change is designed to ensure fairness, making sure that opportunities are accessed by those who are committed to TDNI goals and to the development of our sector, as well as themselves, in the long term. Therefore, from January 2026, membership must be active for a minimum of 6 months to be eligible to apply for bursaries and programmes, including Spotlight, INVEST and more.
We know that changes like these can feel difficult, and we have not made them lightly. But we believe they are necessary to protect the future of TDNI’s work and to strengthen our ability to support the theatre and dance community across Northern Ireland.
I would like to thank you for your ongoing support. Your membership is a valued investment in the creativity, resilience, and future of our sector. We look forward to continuing to work closely with all our members and building on our community.
With gratitude,
Niamh Â
Executive Director, Theatre and Dance NI
What’s Changing?
New Membership Fees (from 15 September 2025)
| Band | New Price |
|---|---|
| Student / Universal Credit | ÂŁ20.00 |
| Band A – Individual | £35.00 |
| Band B – Organisation: Turnover £20,000 or less | £50.00 |
| Band C – Organisation: Turnover £20,001 – £99,999 | £75.00 |
| Band D – Organisation: Turnover £100,000 – £499,999 | £125.00 |
| Band E – Organisation: Turnover £500,000+ | £250.00 |
| Band F – Local Authority | £250.00 |
| Band G – Further & Higher Educational Institute | £350.00 |
New eligibility rule:
From 01 January 2026, members must hold membership for a minimum of 6 months before applying for bursaries, funding or artist development programmes.
Why These Changes?
- Fees have been frozen since a reduction five years ago.
- Rising costs mean an update is needed to sustain our services.
- The new eligibility rule protects fairness and ensures opportunities go to dedicated members. Please make sure your membership is up to date to avoid missing any opportunites.Â
Your Membership Benefits Include:
- Funding & Development – exclusive bursaries, discounted training, workshops, and professional development opportunities including Spotlight and INVEST.
- Networking & Advocacy – sector-wide events, conferences, and strong advocacy for the performing arts in NI.
- Discounts & Tools – reduced rates on equipment hire and captioning services, plus access to our Freelancers’ Directory, library, and resource hub.
- Wellbeing & Support – 24/7 confidential counselling, wellbeing mornings, and access to expert resources. Professional counselling provided by Spectrum Life.
Make sure your membership is up to date so you don’t miss out on opportunities.