The New Wolsey Theatre is committed to increasing the representation of D/deaf and disabled people in their audiences, workforce, and stages.

They support and showcase new work and new ideas from contemporary theatre makers through the PULSE artist development programme. Last year, they introduced Testing Ground, a seed commission programme for original work from D/deaf and disabled artists.  They are keen to develop these artists and their work, and ensure the aesthetics of access are embedded in the creative process.

This year, Testing Ground presented three works at various stages of their development at PULSE Festival 2017, with scratches of Nicola Werenowska’s Invisible, Kiruna Stamell and Rhona McKenzie’s Disability Sex Archive, and the premiere of Rachel Bagshaw and Chris Thorpe’s The Shape of Pain.

Nicola Werenowska, writer of Invisible, a Testing Ground 2017 commission has said: ‘Not only has Testing Ground given me invaluable time, space and resources to begin a new piece of work which I’m really excited about, but the process has been transformative in terms of exploring my personal relationship to my disability in my artistic practice and developing a neurodiverse led practice.’ 

Applications are now open for three new Testing Ground commissions, leading to a presentation of work in PULSE Festival 2018.  These commissions will vary according to the needs of projects, and could include financial, dramaturgical, marketing and other in-kind support.

Deadline for submissions is Friday 22 September 2017.

How do you apply? 

All you need to do is submit a page of A4 or equivalent video clip explaining the idea, and what you’ve achieved up to now.

For more details or to send your submissions, please contact Jamie Beddard, Agent for Change at the New Wolsey Theatre: JBeddard@wolseytheatre.co.uk.