To mark a special moment in Derby Theatre’s story, we’re launching a new photo and storytelling project, capturing the people who have made Derby Theatre what it is – and what it can be in the future.
We’re looking for:
- Actors, artists and creatives
- Audience members and supporters
- Young people, students, community participants
- Technicians, staff and volunteers – past or present
- Anyone whose life has been touched by Derby Theatre
Your portrait will be taken by a professional photographer, and you’ll be invited to record your personal story – a memory, a moment, or a message – about your connection to Derby Theatre. You may decide to apply with someone else if they are integral to your story. Please let us know this on the application.
If you are not selected for the portrait project, please let us know if you would be happy for us to use your words on their own in written form for our website as part of a digital project.
Who We’re Looking For:
We want to reflect the true diversity of Derby and Derby Theatre’s programmes. This includes (but isn’t limited to) diversity of:
- Age
- Gender identity and expression
- Ethnicity and cultural heritage
- Disability and neurodiversity
- Class and socio-economic background
- Sexual orientation
- Connection to Derby Theatre – past or present, big or small
You don’t have to be a performer or writer – just someone with a story to tell.
Criteria for Selection
To ensure we represent the breadth of Derby’s communities and Derby Theatre’s reach, we will prioritise:
- Representation across our different strands of work – e.g. Main Stage, Learning and Community Projects, Young Company, Artist Development
- A balance of age groups and life experiences
- Voices that may not always be heard in traditional theatre spaces
- A range of connections – from first-timers to long-time collaborators
See BSL Introduction Video here
Accessibility and Inclusion
We are committed to ensuring this project is welcoming and accessible to all. We will:
- Offer alternative formats for applying (written, video, audio)
- Provide access support (e.g. BSL interpretation, audio description, relaxed sessions)
- Ensure photography and interviews take place in accessible spaces
- Cover reasonable access expenses where needed
Please tell us any adjustments that would support you to take part – we’re happy to help.
How To Apply
To express your interest, please send us one of the following:
- A short written paragraph (max 100 words)
- OR a 1-minute video or audio recording
Include:
- Your name, contact details and your connection to Derby Theatre
- A brief idea of the story you’d like to tell
- Anything we should know to support your access
- Let us know if you would be happy for us to use your words even if you’re not selected for the portrait.
- Let us know if you would like another person to be in the photo with you and to tell your story together, Please briefly say why this is important.
Please email your submission to marketing@derbytheatre.co.uk by Mon 4 August and make the subject of the email: “Stages – 50 Faces Project”.
Key Dates to Note:
-
Expression of Interest Deadline: 5pm on Monday 4 August
-
Welcome and Introduction Session: Thursday 14 August, 6pm–8pm
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Portrait Photography Sessions: Wednesday 20 and Thursday 21 August (individual time slots available throughout both days)