Developing the Dramaturg NSW 2025
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Developing the Dramaturg NSW 2025 Program Information for Applicants
Developing the Dramaturg (DTD) increases diversity in the field of dramaturgy through a skills development Storylan and paid placement in producing organisations. Following our successful NSW program in 2023, we will continue this program again in 2025 in partnership with Belvoir Theatre Company, Griffin Theatre Company, National Theatre of Parramatta, Moogahlin Performing Arts, and Merrigong Theatre Company. APT is committed to fostering a more inclusive and dynamic community of dramaturgs, and this initiative will help to expand the range of stories and perspectives that are brought to the stage.
OPEN TO: New South Wales based dramaturgs identifying as First Nations, CaLD, People of Colour.
“Being a part of this program has been both a fantastic learning opportunity and great fun, too. To be able to hear from so many great dramaturgs through the workshops provided by APT has exposed me to the many different forms and shapes the practice of dramaturgy can take, but hugely to be able to be a part of a company over a prolonged period of time, witness their inner workings, the conversations, and the way they engage with artists has been hugely valuable. It feels like my practice has grown in leaps and bounds." - JoJo Zhou, Developing the Dramaturg 2023 Participant
The program has multiple components including:
- Story Lab in New Play Dramaturgy
Story Lab is a workshop that covers types of dramaturgy, the role of a dramaturg, and Western and Non-Western dramaturgy. Participants will have access to workshop leaders drawn from a range of dramaturgical approaches and cultural backgrounds.
- One-on-One Mentorship
Participants will have the opportunity to work with a mentor in a one-on-one setting. Mentors will provide feedback on participants' work, offer guidance on career development, and share their own experiences working in the field.
- Paid Placement within Partner Companies
Participants will have a paid placement within one of our Partner Companies facilitated and organised by APT and the Producing company. Each placement will look different but is the equivalent of 4 weeks full-time.
- Post-placement Digital Story Lab
After the placement, participants will attend a one-day digital story lab to debrief and share their experiences with their peers and mentors.
- Career Pathway Planning
The program ends with an APT-hosted debrief and career pathway planning session, where participants can reflect on their experience in the program and plan for their future career goals. By the end of the program, participants should have a deeper understanding of dramaturgy, the role of a dramaturg across the Australian theatre landscape, and strong connections with their Partner Company, Mentor, and network of Peers.
FAQ’s
- Do I have to have worked as a Dramaturg before to apply for this program?
No. You do not have to have worked specifically as a Dramaturg to apply. You do have to have experience in theatre; this could be playwriting, acting, directing or stage management. We are looking for people who have been in rehearsal rooms and productions and are eager to increase their skill set.
- Do I have to organise my placement within a theatre company?
No. We have partnered with companies to facilitate your placement.
- Do I have to be from a CaLD, Australian First Nations background or a Person of Colour to apply?
Yes
- Is this an unpaid Internship?
No, you will be paid for the hours that you participate in the Story Lab and placement within the company. It will be negotiated between you and the company and the projects that you will work on, we understand you may be working on other shows too. It is a big commitment; we ask that you consider that you have the time to take on this project in 2025.
- Can I speak to someone before I apply?
Yes. We are happy to chat to you before you apply. We work part-time, so the best way is to send us an email with your questions, or attend the FAQ session.
- What is the application process?
The application process will involve submitting a written application outlining your experience and why you would like to participate in the program. This will be shared with the Partner companies to make decisions what is the best match.
- How long is the program?
The program runs for approximately 6 months
- Is this program only for residents of NSW?
Yes, this program is only open to residents of New South Wales.
- Do I need to have a specific project or play to work on during the program?
No, you do not need to have a specific project or play to work on during the program. The program is designed to build your skills and provide opportunities for professional development and networking.
- What is the time commitment for the program?
The program requires a significant time commitment, including participation in the Story Lab workshops, one-on-one mentorship, placement within a partner company, and the post-placement digital story lab. We recommend that you carefully consider your availability before applying.
- Will I be guaranteed work after completing the program?
While we cannot guarantee work after completing the program, we hope that the program will provide you with valuable skills, connections, and opportunities for professional development that will support your future career in dramaturgy.
- Q & A
There will be a Zoom Q&A session on the evening of Wednesday 12h March. To RSVP please use the following form: https://forms.office.com/r/SqKrDn8qVx
Submissions Open: 10:00am AEDT, Thursday 27th of February 2025
Submissions Close: 11:59pm AWST, Sunday 23rd of March 2025
Q&A: 6:00pm AEDT, Wednesday 12th of March 2025
This project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW
