Since launching in February 2017, the Shoebox Theatre has fast become Swindon’s go-to space for performance training and contemporary theatre and is always looking for new ways to give young and emerging theatre makers a platform to create and showcase their work.
Their latest project is Fuse, an annual theatre festival, which supports emerging artists by offering free rehearsal space, mentoring in producing, marketing, production and artistic development, and an opportunity to perform their work in progress to an audience.
“Outside of Drama School and University, there are very few opportunities for young and emerging theatre makers to get support, whilst developing and performing their work. With Fuse, we wanted to provide a nurturing environment, with ample help and advice to get new work on its feet at no cost to the artists.” said Josh Foyster, Producer of FUSE Festival.
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Flop[/caption]
He added: “We have been overwhelmed by the number of applications we received for this year’s festival and are excited to be able to support and showcase the work of five theatre companies and artists at the start of their careers.”
The festival will include performances from Significant Other, Flop, Dollybox, Rhys Denton and Paperback - ranging from comedy and drama, to physical and experimental theatre. Many of the successful applicants are recent graduates of Drama School and University, who are building their practice and exploring and experimenting with their work.
“The festival will have something for everyone, and we hope people will also come and watch something that is out of their usual comfort zone. The audience will be given the opportunity to speak to the companies and artists after each performance and provide feedback on their work. We hope that the audience will feel as much as part of the festival as the theatre makers!”
The festival, which will run from July 6 to July 7 at the Shoebox Theatre is operating on a ‘Pay what you can’ basis, which means that although you can pre-book your tickets, you only need to pay what you can afford when you get to the venue.
To find out more visit www.fusefestival.co.uk
