Birmingham Hippodrome’s New Work and Artist Development department has launched Hippodrome Origins, a brand-new bespoke artist development programme for theatre makers from the West Midlands.

Hippodrome Origins offers the region’s theatre writers and makers a unique opportunity which includes artistic development and support with workshops, resources and a platform to share their work. The programme forms a key part of the New Work and Artist Development department’s mission to make the Hippodrome a vibrant and supportive home for West Midlands creatives.

Hippodrome Origins will be led by Anna Himali Howard, New Work Manager at Birmingham Hippodrome. Anna is a director, theatre maker and dramaturg from Birmingham who most recently co-adapted and directed The Secret Garden at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Anna joined the New Work and Artist Development team in June, which is headed up by Sophia Griffin, and supported by New Work & Artist Development Co-ordinator, Maria-Magdalena Mineva.

Beginning in November 2024, selected artists will benefit from regular workshops, creative and technical support as well as free rehearsal space at the Hippodrome. Open to artists 18+, the 18-month development programme offers a bursary of £2500, bespoke artist development, dramaturgical support, funded theatre trips and a platform to share theatre work.

Meeting on Monday evenings, the first six months will be an immersive period of learning, group sessions and trips to theatre and other cultural events. In the subsequent 12 months each artist or company will develop a new piece of work, supported by the Hippodrome, with monthly group sessions to catch up with each other and receive peer support. At the end of the programme the work will be shared with a wider audience.

Birmingham Hippodrome is looking for artists in the West Midlands who can demonstrate a commitment to making theatre and can talk about an idea that they are hoping to develop.

Applications for Hippodrome Origins open on Thursday 8 August and close on Monday 16 September at 12pm. To apply visit: birminghamhippodrome.com