Today The Old Vic announces the theatre makers behind this year’s Old Vic 12: a company of talented, developing artists looking to make the next step in their careers. The scheme offers them the opportunity to expand their networks, experience first class mentoring and receive funding to create three brand new plays as a collective.
The newly announced Old Vic 12 consists of:
- Directors, Chelsea Walker, Lekan Lawal and Jesse Jones
- Producers, Molly Roberts, Tobi Kyeremateng and Aaron Rogers
- Playwrights, Joe White, Rebecca Crookshank and John O’Donovan
- Designer, Fin Redshaw
- Movement Director, Rachael Nanyonjo
- Composer, Cassie Kinoshi
This Autumn, after receiving 1,300 applications and interviewing over 300 candidates, The Old Vic is thrilled to start work with these artists to nurture and unveil the work they produce.
Artistic Director, Matthew Warchus said, ‘Supporting the next generation of theatre-makers is one of the most important and effective contributions to our cultural future we can make. It is also one of the most enjoyable.
The Old Vic 12 sees emerging creatives engaging with people at the top of their profession across a wide range of theatrical disciplines and it’s hugely inspiring to see how much all parties get from the mutual exchange of ideas. The presence of these early-career creative minds in our midst through the year is extremely energising. And it’s also exciting to see the partnerships formed within the group and how these develop forward beyond The Old Vic. So, we are very happy to welcome this year’s group, and to support them as they collaborate to create new work and bring fresh energy to this building.’
The Old Vic 12 demonstrates the theatre’s commitment to outreach and inclusivity in everything it does and feeds into The Old Vic’s integrated artist development strategy at the heart of the theatre. During Season 1 of Matthew Warchus’ Artistic Directorship, The Old Vic engaged with 10,000 people via four new outreach programmes: OV12, Stage Business (a unique leadership and employability project for young people aged 16–18, who then deliver additional workshops for younger students aged 11–14), Baylis Director and Assistant Baylis Directorships (annual post that provide a notable opportunity for one director and assistant directors each year) and Frontline (a scheme offering 16–20 year olds, an opportunity to discover more about careers in theatre through paid placements with The Old Vic’s front of house team). These initiatives unlock creative imagination in people of all ages and backgrounds, building close relationships and friendships, developing strong communities, and enhancing employability. The Old Vic is committed to working in a united way with artists to ensure genuine career progression and development at every stage.