There are spaces for twelve outstanding performers at the Wise Children new venue in the beautiful market town of Frome, Somerset for the 2024 residential course, Wise Children’s Summer Open Residency.

The Wise Children Training Programme is a flexible training, designed to nurture the next generation of fearless, independent theatre makers. Led by Emma Rice, and the award-winning creatives she works with, the programme focuses on two key elements of the way Wise Children works – ensemble storytelling and collaborative devising – and uses these to unlock creativity in each student.

The programme includes Taster’ workshops, week-long residencies, mentoring and Traineeships: paid positions on Wise Children shows. There is also an active Alumni network, through which there is continued support for students after their training.

Led by the Wise Children directing team, the Summer Open Residency is a week-long performing course which will include acting, singing, dancing, puppetry, and more, as you learn to create playful, ensemble, music-filled theatre in the style of Wise Children. It’s our favourite way to meet new (or new to us) performers.

They are looking for performers aged 18+ who are serious about working in the industry. No professional training is needed, but all students will need to be able to perform, sing and move confidently – so most applicants should have at least some previous performing experience. There is no upper age limit for this opportunity. You may have joined the industry recently, wanting to brush up on your skills or returning after taking some time out.

The programme is also designed to address inequalities in access to arts training in the UK, where cost, knowledge, networks and the structure of traditional courses can all be a barrier to participation. All places free, and  additional support for travel, accommodation, living and/or other access costs is available.

Dates: Monday 29th July – Friday 2nd August 2024

Venue: The Lucky Chance, Frome, Somerset

Cost: Free

Deadline: 17th June

Read more and apply here