Stage One x Columbia Exchange 2023 Applications Now Open!

Stage One are pleased to announce the third exchange programme with Columbia University.  After a successful programme in 2019/20 and in 2022, both organisations are thrilled to be working together again on this unique training programme.

On 17^th April, 10 producers taking part in the MFA Theatre Producing Course at Columbia University are coming to the West End for a week long intensive series of workshops on how to produce in London and the UK.  In September 2023 we will take 12 producers (who have previously taken part in a programme with Stage One) to New York for one week to learn everything about how to produce on Broadway. 

Applications are now open for the 12 producers wanting to take part in the programme and visit the US in September.  Successful applicants will need to be available for some of the week beginning the 17^th April to meet the American producers, and be able to attend the week-long workshop from 18^th – 22^nd September in New York.

Stage One will offer a grant of £3,000 to 12 Stage One producers to support the costs of travel, accommodation, and expenses for the exchange. If accepted onto the exchange this will be paid in full and it is up to the individual to book.

The course is designed for Stage One producers who have a clear ambition to produce on or off Broadway including taking work to New York that has originated in the UK.  Applicants will need to have attended the Stage One Producers workshop and have a clear track record of lead producing mid to large scale theatre in the UK. Applicants will also need to be eligible to travel to the U.S.A. If you’re thinking of applying and have questions, we’re always happy to have a conversation.

With the small number of places and intensity of the course it’s essential that applicants understand the collaborative nature of the course and are fully committed to attending every session and fully participating.   

Applications open on Thursday 16^th February and close on 10^th March 2023. 

You need to sign up or log in to the member's portal to access the application form. If you find this format inaccessible, please do contact Olivia on [email protected] to discuss other forms of application (video, audio etc.).

For further information, please contact Stage One’s Programme Director, Louise, on 0207 557 6737 / [email protected]. Please keep checking the website and sign up to our newsletter to keep up to date with Stage One news!

How will it work?

Once the producers have been chosen and the grants awarded it is then up to producers to book their flights, accommodation and any visa requirements. The sessions will start on Monday morning so producers need to book flights over the weekend before it begins. The programme will finish on the Friday evening so return flights can be booked for the weekend. The schedule will be available to producers well in advance so shows and meetings can be booked in around the seminars. 

Will I need to attend all the sessions in New York and London?
The Stage One producers are expected to attend all the training & development sessions in New York which may include some evenings.  We have factored in plenty of opportunities for individuals to see shows and to network.

When the Columbia students are in the UK, the Stage One producers will need to attend some sessions but not all. 

A provisional schedule based on the past courses is below to give a guide to subject areas that will be covered.   

Provisional schedule:

This project & bursaries for producers are graciously supported by the John Gore Organization.