Stage One, the charity dedicated to developing and supporting producers for the commercial theatre industry, has increased the capacity of its bursary and apprentice schemes by 50% in the last year, according to its annual report.
The figure is just one achievement in a report that reveals a year of growth and development for Stage One, including record numbers of applicants for its schemes and workshops, the success of its first Start-Up Fund for New Producers and its investment in successful West End productions including Enron, Legally Blonde The Musical and The Misanthrope.
Luke Johnson, Chair of Stage One, said: “Stage One can celebrate a highly successful year, once again reaffirming its fundamental position within the commercial theatre industry. However, Stage One is not complacent and recognises that as an organisation with an ongoing commitment to the development of new commercial theatre producers, we must be as ambitious as the entrepreneurial talent we endeavour to develop. We are constantly evaluating and strengthening the scope of activities to ensure that Stage One is wholly synonymous with profitable and quality commercial producing.”
For the first time in 2009/10, Stage One’s Apprentice Scheme for New Producers – which allows future producers to learn about the process of commercial theatre from professionals – was opened for applications twice, leading to six internships in the West End.
Becky Barber was the first recipient of Stage One’s newly launched Start-Up Fund, receiving a £25,000 investment towards her first West End production, the Trevor Nunn-directed Birdsong. The fund is supported by industry businesses and individuals who have committed financial support for a period of three years to 2012.
The success of this year’s three-day New Producers Workshop, which received over 85 applications, means that Stage One will hold two workshops next year to cater for demand.
In addition to monies raised through fundraising, Stage One is financially supported by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) as well as theatres and producers in the West End, who donate a voluntary seat levy towards the fund.
CB