“The JMK Trust has a goal.
We’ve always believed that talented theatre makers and arts leaders can be found from all social and cultural backgrounds, across the country. But inspiration, and the opportunity to participate in Britain’s world leading theatre industry, tend to be easier to come by for London-based theatre directors or those from more affluent educational backgrounds. (That’s an understatement).
Our regional programme of work, led by five inspiring Director Practitioners, runs groups for theatre directors, in partnership with producing theatres of national status, all over the country. These groups of emerging artists gain access to learning opportunities, discount theatre visits, rehearsal rooms, practical workshops and intensive creative residencies – all for free.
And from every group, each year, one director works as an assistant or associate on a major production at the venue, giving them a paid opportunity to work as Leverhulme Arts Scholar and moving them forward on their career pathway.
The work establishes a direct link between professional venues and their local creative catchment area, strengthening the relationship between communities and their creative hubs and affording unique access to the theatre making process.
The work we do is unique and runs on an exceptionally modest budget and staff team.
We hope you believe, as we do, that these opportunities are essential in order to ensure British Theatre can represent diverse voices from all over our country, and offer a pathway into a working life for individuals whose commitment and passion marks them out as distinct talents for the future.
Please help us continue, and extend, this valuable work. Donations will help us staff and run this work for the coming year.”
Stephen Fewell, Chair – The JMK Trust
To support our work this week (27 Nov – 4 Dec) during the Big Give Christmas Challenge, please donate here. Your donation will be doubled with match funding – doubling our impact, at no extra cost to you.
Image credit: Salvo Toscano
