Artist Development

Artist Residencies and Work-in-Progress Opportunities

At Shakespeare North Playhouse, we are dedicated to fostering creativity and building lasting relationships with artists. Throughout the year, we support a variety of residencies and work-in-progress sharings for artists working in the performing arts at all stages of their careers.

We’re especially keen to hear from artists based in Knowsley and the Liverpool City Region who could benefit from time in our Studio to develop their work. While the Studio is often in use for performances and rehearsals, we’re committed to making it available for local artists whenever possible. Additionally, we support artists working in outdoor spaces, utilizing the Sir Ken Dodd Performance Garden.

If you’re interested in working with us or learning more about our work, please connect with our Producing team at [email protected]

Our vision:

Inspired by Shakespeare. Bringing Joy. Together, we tell stories that feel like our own; stories that change the way we see the world. Opening doors, inviting debate, inspiring a love of learning, and bringing joy to our community: our Shakespeare North Playhouse.

We are committed to challenging, surprising, and moving audiences through a diverse range of programming. While we showcase works inspired by William Shakespeare, we also present productions that explore broader themes, reflecting the heritage and contemporary culture of Knowsley and the Liverpool City Region. In addition to our own co-productions, we feature work from visiting artists and companies across our three key spaces: the Cockpit Theatre, the Studio, and the Sir Ken Dodd Performance Garden.

To submit your work for consideration, please send us as much information as possible—tour packs, trailers, and any details on how we can view your work, as well as which space this work is created for.

The Culture and Learning team regularly review submissions and work to balance the programme with varied and exciting offerings.

We program spaces on a rolling basis, typically 6–12 months in advance. Please note, we are a small team and unable to read unsolicited scripts. To submit a show for consideration, email us at [email protected]

We love to hear from artists who are as excited about Shakespeare North Playhouse as we are.

When casting and hiring creative teams, we are committed to celebrating diversity both on and off the stage. We especially want to connect with artists who are currently underrepresented in theatre, including (but not limited to) working-class, global majority, and Deaf or disabled artists.

As a new organisation we are building our network of artists and creative practitioners. If you would like to be added to this database, please email [email protected]

Actors: Please include a link to your Spotlight profile or an example of your work.

CALLOUTS

Queer Adaptations Season – We are programming a season of work reimagining existing narratives through a queer (LGBTQIA+) lens. This will be presented at Shakespeare North Playhouse’s Studio in Spring 2025. Do you have a piece of work that celebrates the retelling of an existing play, myth, story, or character through a queer (LGBTQIA+) lens? If so, we’d like to hear from you! More info

WORKSHOPS

Wednesday, 2nd October: Creating Autobiographical Theatre Workshop with Jenny Sealey, Director of Romeo and Juliet

Friday, 4th October: Play The Story, Play The Space Masterclass in Solo Storytelling with Debs Newbold

Tuesdays, 8th October, 5th November, 3rd December: Arts Council England Funding Surgeries

AUDITIONS

Open auditions will be announced via our website and social media channels. Please check back for details.