Northern Rivers theatre-makers will have access to mentoring, funding and development opportunities through a new free program aimed at helping local artists create original Australian theatre.
Byron Theatre Company has launched Storytellers, a two-stage artist development program offering creative teams dedicated development time, professional mentorship and financial support.
Based at the Byron Community Centre, Byron Theatre Company said the program would create new pathways for regional theatre-makers to develop ambitious work without having to leave the Northern Rivers.
Storytellers is funded through Create NSW’s Regional Partnerships program and will give selected artists the opportunity to explore ideas, test new work, receive feedback and collaborate with other theatre-makers.
“We want to support original theatre being made here in the Northern Rivers by the artists who call this region home,” said Bianca Sirianni, Creative Producer of Byron Theatre Company.
“There is so much creative talent here, but developing new work takes time, space and support. Storytellers is about creating that opportunity and helping artists work out what their project needs next.”
The program will begin with a three-day Development Lab at Byron Theatre, with four selected projects each receiving $800.
Participants will also receive mentoring, dramaturgical guidance, dedicated development time and professional photography.
Up to two projects will then be selected for a five-day Project Residency, with each receiving an additional $2,500.
The residencies will include continued creative support, access to Byron Theatre, technical assistance and an opportunity to present a work-in-progress showing.
Experienced producer and arts leader Jane Fuller and award-winning director Heather Fairbairn have been confirmed as mentors for the Development Lab and residencies.
Guest mentors, including acclaimed actor and director Wayne Blair, will also work with artists during the residency stage.
Storytellers is open to creative teams developing original projects ready for their next stage, including new plays, devised theatre, physical theatre, contemporary performance and interdisciplinary work.
Byron Theatre Company said the initiative formed part of its growing commitment to developing local artists and new work in the region.
Artists interested in the program are encouraged to contact Byron Theatre Company to discuss their project before applying.
Expressions of interest close at 6pm AEDT on Sunday, November 1, with applicants to be notified by the end of November.
The Development Lab will be held in January 2027, followed by Project Residencies between February and April.
Applications can be made through the Byron Theatre website.
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