Current Opportunities

We’re looking for exciting, ambitious theatre-makers who are ready to take the next step in their creative journey, with a focus on artists interested in contemporary drama and/or musical theatre. 

This iteration of the Resident Creative Programme is designed to align closely with Curve’s areas of expertise and reflect the communities and audiences we serve. We’re therefore particularly keen to hear from artists whose practice and developmental goals connect with our programming and artistic direction, and individuals/groups from low socio-economic backgrounds and the global majority. 

As part of your application, we’ll ask you to: 

• Share a clear artistic ambition – particularly in making work suitable for conventional theatrical programming. 

• Pitch a project you’d like support with during the residency, which has potential for public performance at Curve. (Please note that while we welcome ambitious project ideas, being selected for the residency does not guarantee your work will be programmed at Curve). 

• Propose an engagement workshop or activity that connects with one of Curve’s key communities, supports other artists, or reaches a new group who could benefit from engaging with a cultural institution like Curve. 

You should be based in the Midlands or have a strong connection to the region. Priority will be given to artists based in Leicester and those living in Neighbour-Hub areas. Which are: New Parks, Highfields & St Matthews, Saffron, Evington and Braunstone.  

Applications will be reviewed by a panel made up of Curve team members and local artists. 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews week commencing 10 November 2025. This first conversation will act as an extension of your application, a chance for you to share more about your work, your ideas and your hopes for the residency. 

If needed, we may invite a smaller number of applicants to a second-stage conversation to explore your project and vision in more detail.

In-Person Sessions 

As part of your residency, you’ll take part in four in-person sessions held throughout the first year. These sessions are designed to support your career development, encourage collaboration within the cohort, and shape the direction of your residency experience. 

The first session will kick off with a warm welcome and a chance to meet the team at Curve. You’ll also take part in a short press and marketing interview so we can profile you and your work on our website. The rest of the day will be spent getting to know your fellow creatives and working with us to map out a career plan tailored to your goals over the 18-month residency. 

The remaining three sessions will be shaped in response to the needs and interests identified during this first gathering. These might include practical workshops, skill-sharing sessions, guest speakers, or other development opportunities – all designed to support your growth as an artist and help you make the most of your time with us. 

Theatre Trips 

As a Curve Resident Creative, you’ll be encouraged to engage with our full programme. You’ll receive invitations to attend Made at Curve productions, plus additional shows from our wider programme throughout the year. 

 You’ll be invited to performances by both Curve Young Company and our Community Company. These trips are a brilliant way to stay inspired, connect with different types of work, and deepen your relationship with the theatre and our audiences. 

Programming Meetings 

You’ll be invited to attend two programming meetings during your first year with us. These are monthly sessions where Curve’s programming team reviews upcoming productions and discusses ideas for future seasons. 

You’ll have the opportunity not only to observe how programming decisions are made, but also to contribute your own thoughts. This is a rare chance to gain behind-the-scenes insight into the curatorial process of a producing theatre and to have your voice heard as part of it. 

Industry Discussions 

Across the first year of your residency, you’ll take part in four online industry discussion sessions. These are opportunities to hear from members of the wider Curve team as well as leading voices from across the theatre industry. 

Topics will focus on enriching your understanding of theatre-making, from creative approaches and producing models to business planning, leadership, and artistic development. 

Some sessions will be shaped by the group’s interests and needs. Others may take a more reflective or self-led format, for example, following a group workday or attendance at an event. 

Monthly 1:1s – In-Person or Online 

Each month, you’ll be able to book a one-to-one session with Curve Associate Director Cara Nolan. These sessions are designed to help you check in regularly, reflect on your progress, and get support with your project planning. 

You can choose a regular day and time each month or arrange sessions as needed. If you’d benefit from a one-to-one with another member of the Curve team, this can be arranged through Cara. 

Space in Kind 

All CRC artists will have access to free rehearsal space at Curve during their residency. Up to four weeks of space will be available over the 18 months, subject to availability. Space will need to be booked in advance via Curve’s team. 

Mentoring 

During the first 12 months of your residency, you’ll work with Curve’s team to set personal goals and professional ambitions that guide your journey. 

In the final six months, we’ll help you identify and connect with an industry mentor – someone whose experience and insight aligns with your next steps. This is an opportunity to build a meaningful, long-term relationship with a theatre professional who can help you move forward in your career. 

Workshop 

As part of your application, we’ll ask you to pitch a workshop idea. This could be aimed at one of Curve’s communities, a group of artists, or a new audience that could benefit from engaging with a cultural organisation like Curve. 

You’ll then work closely with the programme lead to refine and shape your idea during one-to-one sessions. Once finalised, you’ll be paid to deliver your workshop as part of your residency. 

Project 

You’ll also be asked to pitch a project, idea, or production concept as part of your application. This will be a key focus of your time at Curve. 

Over the course of the residency, you’ll receive practical and creative support to help bring your project to life, including one-to-one mentoring, access to rehearsal space, feedback sessions, and support with funding applications. 

Remuneration 

In addition to the above support, each artist will receive a £1,000 payment to support their participation in the programme over the 18-month period. 

In addition to this: 

• If you’re asked to deliver workshops or sessions, you’ll be paid for your time. 

• You’ll be invited to pitch a project to develop during your residency. Curve may offer additional financial support toward this project on a case-by-case basis. These would be contributions to help develop the work, not full commissions or full funding. 

Additional Benefits 

As a Curve Resident Creative, you’ll also receive a range of practical benefits to support your time with us: 

• Access to ticket offers and special events 

• Company rate at Curve Café 

• Associate discount on room bookings and venue hire 

• One free place on a Curve Connect Workshop of your choice. 

Application deadline  – Monday 27 October 2025, 10am 

Online information session with Q&A– 8 October 2025, 7pm – 8pm 

• Click here to book your free space on the online Q&A now. 

Interviews – Week commencing 10 November 2025 

First in-person working session – Friday 12 December 2025