A: As much as we all wish we were members of Coldplay and doing the Glastonbury, Bestival and Isle of White touring circuit, we are all majorly passionate about touring theatre! So which festivals should you be aware of and who should you be considering trying to programme your show at? I challenged a producer (who will remain nameless) to give me a quick summary of each festival, the results are below!

• Brighton

“An open-access theatre and arts festival, and the little sister to Edinburgh, perfect for seasoned producers and first-timers alike. Fast becoming a perfect scouting spot for programmers and artistic directors looking for shows – also make sure not to miss their mini royal mile located on and around New Road. The place to find out what’s on!”

• Edinburgh

“Well, what can you say about Edinburgh? The world’s largest arts festival. As important for comedy, music, film and theatre. One-nighters and exhausting month-long runs all are welcome. Be aware, recouping at this goliath (where competition is the fiercest around) can be ever so tricky – so make sure your budget is water tight … plus, take an umbrella.”

• Wilderness

“A relatively new festival in the landscape, which is still establishing its identity when it comes to theatre. But very classy and full to bursting with everything from dance to NT live screenings. As a camping festival, you have a “captive” audience!”

• Latitude

“Cabaret, Literary, Poetry and Theatre are all welcome at this weekend long festival held annually in Suffolk. Many Stage-Oners are familiar with Latitude! After your show has finished it’s a fantastic place to celebrate.”

• Hightide

“England’s premiere new-writing festival held each year in the gorgeous seaside town of Aldeburgh. As happy to co-produce with premier venues such as Soho Theatre as they are with upcoming independent producers. IF you have the right project, they are happy to listen. Insider tip: they have the best fish and chips in the world!”

• Camden

“A first-time producer’s paradise. Running for the whole month of August across London’s off-west end, fringe and pub theatres. Each theatre has their own programming policy, so picking the right space in the right location is key!”

• Manchester International Festival

“MIF is held biennially with a focus on new work! Having just taken on board the outgoing artistic director of London International Festival of Theatre, keep an eye out for what they have in store for this festival!”

 

There you have it, don’t forget to click on the links and check out all the websites for the festivals. If you want to know where the Stage One team will be this summer, we will be touring with Coldplay! See ya!