Why it matters: The programme supports careers in theatre and performance, investing in the creative ecology of the region and championing East Anglian voices.
The details: Associate Artists receive bespoke mentorship tailored to their goals, whether developing new projects, scaling for the midscale stage, or securing funding.
The theatre particularly encourages applications from those connected to Ipswich and Suffolk.
Applicants will have a conversation with Chief Executive and Artistic Director Douglas Rintoul, Executive Director Rachel Fitzgerald, and the Producer as part of the selection process.
Placements will commence between October and December 2025, with meetings taking place in September.
How to apply: Artists should send a short statement (written or video) covering their background, artistic journey, and goals to Sam Bates at admin@wolseytheatre.co.uk. Optional materials, including CVs, websites, images, reviews, or videos, can be included. An Equality, Diversity and Inclusion form must also be completed.
The bigger picture: The first round of Associate Artists included The Paper Birds, Martha Loader, Jamie Beddard, Aspire Black Suffolk, Spinning Wheel Theatre, and Mae Munuo. The theatre particularly encourages applications from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse artists, D/deaf and disabled people, neurodivergent people, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
What they're saying: The programme has already proven successful with previous participants. Mae Munuo, who started at New Wolsey Youth Theatre aged 11, said: "Being an Associate Artist created a big shift in my creative practice. The New Wolsey Theatre has supported me as an actor, deviser and theatre maker."
During her associateship, Munuo learnt to write successful Arts Council England applications, became an associate director, directed her first touring production, and became a regular actor at the theatre.
Martha Loader, a writer, actor and producer whose work has been performed across the UK, described her experience as "a dream". She said: "It was a real joy to work with my home theatre this past year or so as an associate writer. My attachment was funded by the Peggy Ramsay Foundation and Film4, which enabled me to embed myself into the team."
Loader utilised the team's producing, dramaturgy, community engagement and marketing advice to help create a new show. She added: "The insight and experience I gained from the team as I wrote my first musical was invaluable."
What's next: Applications close at 10:00 on Monday, 15 September 2025. For informal discussions or accessibility adjustments, contact Sam Bates on 01473 295914.
The bottom line: New Wolsey Theatre continues to nurture homegrown talent through structured support that transforms emerging artists into established professionals, strengthening the region's creative landscape.
