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Canberra Youth Theatre
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Open Studio

Open Studio is a creative development residency for emerging artists who need space to create a new work, develop an idea, or rehearse a project.

Open Studio is a creative development residency for emerging artists who need space to create a new work, develop an idea, or rehearse a project.


Residents in Open Studio will have access to free space in our rehearsal studio throughout the year, either spread-out over several weeks, or used in intense bursts, depending on what’s most effective for you.

Open Studio is an artist-led initiative that is development-focussed, allowing you to focus on process rather than outcome, no matter what stage your project may be at. We just want to help it grow.

Open Studio Residents will receive:

  • Up to 70 hours of free venue use in our Studio spaces and/or Emerging Artists room.
  • Mentorship and support to help you in your creative process, in whatever way works for you.
  • Opportunities to connect with a community of creative collaborators, present works-in-progress, and receive feedback from peers, mentors and industry.
  • Access to our industry and peer networks from across Australia.
  • Support from Canberra Youth Theatre staff for the development of your professional career pathways.

Eligibility

  • Projects led by, or with a majority of, artists 25 years and under are eligible to apply;
  • Applicants outside of this age range must be developing work that is made for or with children and young people (under 18).

How to Apply

Open Studio applications are open now, and there is no set deadline to apply. Applications are assessed as they are received, and we encourage you to apply early and with as much lead time as possible. While we will do our best to get back to artists as soon as possible, please allow up to 3 weeks for us to respond. 

Applications are to be submitted using the online form HERE. 

Application Process

  1. An application is submitted by the artist or collective.
  2. We will endeavour to respond via email within 3 weeks.
  3. Short-listed applicants will be invited to an interview to discuss the details of their project.
  4. Applicants will then be notified of the outcome of their application.
  5. Successful applicants will then be invited to begin their residency with a consultation session with Canberra Youth Theatre to identify the goals and timeline for the project.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed by Canberra Youth Theatre staff using the following criteria:

  • The project is led by artist/s aged 25 and under OR the project is developing work for children and young people (under 18).
  • Clear articulation of the project proposal.
  • Strength and viability of the proposal.
  • Potential impact of the residency on the career or practice of the artist/s.
  • How your idea aligns with the values of Canberra Youth Theatre.

Applications for Open Studio are now open

FAQs

What stage does my project or idea need to be in?

Whether it’s a brand new idea, or something you’ve been working on for a while that just needs some extra support, Open Studio residencies are open to project proposals at any stage of development.

Can I apply with a group?

Yes, our Open Studio residencies are open to individuals, small and large groups and established companies. Applications will need to have one main contact, who can act as the main point of communication.

Does everyone involved have to be under 25 years of age?

While Canberra Youth Theatre’s focus is on emerging artists up to the age of 25, we will consider applications from collectives where the lead creatives and/or majority of the team is 25 years and under, or the artists are making work for children and young people (under 18 years).

What does Canberra Youth Theatre expect from the Open Studio residents?
  • Provide feedback to Canberra Youth Theatre at the end of their residency to help assist and develop our future programs.
  • Open and ongoing communication.
  • Work in collaboration with the Canberra Youth Theatre team to ensure all parties are supported.
  • Respect our space.
  • Compliance with all safety, security, and induction requirements.
When will the space be available for use?

Canberra Youth Theatre’s Studio space is used throughout the year for rehearsals, workshops, and creative developments – mainly after 3pm weekdays, and some weekends. Open Studio residencies will occur around our existing activities, and as such we are open to flexible use of space, with a preference for weekdays during business hours. We are open to negotiating the hours of use, especially if you are working with school-aged artists.

Do I have to present a public outcome?

No, projects do not need to have a public outcome to be considered for an Open Studio residency. However, Open Studio residents will be encouraged to share their work through open rehearsals or work-in-progress showings for our young and emerging artists. Open Studio residents will also be invited to present work at our Scratch nights.

Our Emerging Artists programs are made possible thanks to the
Jeremy Spencer Broom Legacy.

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Canberra Youth Theatre acknowledges the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the lands on which we collaborate, share stories, and create art. We recognise all other First Nations peoples and families with connection to the ACT and region. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. Sovereignty was never ceded.

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