Theatre relies on its ability to attract a stream of promising new talent, prepared to work with commitment for very modest wages on a freelance basis, creating the sort of shows that often achieve international success after beginning life in small theatres like The Orange Tree and The Young Vic.
This year, theatre closure hasn’t only had an impact on the living of those freelancers that craft its shows, an estimated third of whom have not qualified for any government support, but also on the up-and-coming generation of theatre makers who have been denied opportunity and inspiration as well as an income. This year at the JMK Trust we have seized the opportunity amid lockdown to help in both areas.
Staffed entirely by those hard-hit freelance creatives, and providing advice, guidance and training to aspiring creative leaders of the future, since April 2020 the JMK Trust has gone online. An existing National Programme of workshops, aimed at engaging theatre directors from all backgrounds, became the #JMKSpace. With so many leading industry figures suddenly available, virtual workshops have been hosted by directors like Natalie Abrahami and Lyndsey Turner, sharing their insight and expertise.
Whirlwind of insight and info with @JMKTrust1. Totally engaging, so much so my cat wouldn’t leave the computer alone! Thanks and really recommended to any theatre makers.
— Workshop Participant @kittylball October 2020
As a disabled director these workshops on Zoom meet access needs so brilliantly. I hope there might be a way to continue them post lockdown. It does not replace being in a room but sometimes that is hard to manage for Disabled creatives.
— Workshop Participant June 2020
We understand that the answer to all of this year’s challenges cannot, and should not, come solely from charitable giving. Nevertheless, we are relying on your support to continue our work, all our work, in the New Year.
We’re raising funds to continue this essential work through to summer of 2021, and you can help.
If you can make a donation, click here-
If you would like a retailer to make a free donation on your behalf every time you shop, click on whichever scheme you prefer here-
At the end of this disorientating year, it would be great to have you join our family ‘bubble’.
Stephen Fewell
Chair
