Free courses for deaf and disabled people at the beginning of their theatre careers

Deaf and disabled artists interested in pursuing careers in directing, producing and writing can apply for free courses being offered by Leeds Playhouse and Sheffield Theatres in association with Ramps On The Moon. They are joining forces to host three introductory courses led by experienced theatre professionals.

The writing and producing courses will both take place at Leeds Playhouse. The writers will be led by Leeds-based artist Leanna Benjamin, the new Artist for Change and Writer in Residence at the Playhouse, and Furnace Coordinator Rio Matchett, who plays a key role in the Playhouse’s artistic development programme.

The course for aspiring producers will be led by Leeds Playhouse Agent for Change Paul Wilshaw, and Freelance Producer Ben Rothera.

The directing course will take place at Sheffield Theatres led by their Agent for Change Ben Wilson and RTYDS Associate Artistic Director Anthony Lau.

The courses are supported by Ramps on the Moon, a collaborative network of six major regional theatres aimed at normalising the presence of deaf and disabled people both on and off stage. They will run in a staggered calendar from 22nd February to 7 June, with a week allocated for the sharing of work from 30th May to 3rd June.

During the application window, Leeds Playhouse and Sheffield Theatres will be running two optional Zoom Q&A sessions on Tuesday 18th January from 2–3pm, and Wednesday 19th January from 6.30–7.30pm. The sessions are an opportunity for people to meet the teams running the courses, to ask questions, and to get additional support and information on the application process.

Two short films are available explaining the courses in more detail and giving applicants the chance to meet the writing, producing and directing teams.

The deadline for applications is 10am on Monday 14th February 2022. All the details on how to apply can be found here.