The Independent Producer Residencies programme will support 8 early-career producers across 2 years to develop their professional practice in a meaningful and practical way, pairing training, mentorship and hands-on experience to introduce new producers to the basics, develop their skills and give them real-time experience of producing their first show. The first cohort of participants in this programme will be Kasia Cichocka, Joanna Saw, Kate Spencer and Josie White.
As part of the Independent Producer Residencies, each recipient will receive: a paid freelance, self-employed contract for 12 months; a placement with an independent theatre company, the opportunity to work on projects and in departments within Derby Theatre to gain an insight into a professional regional theatre; dedicated training sessions with In Good Company, covering all the ‘nuts and bolts’ of producing such as fundraising, budgeting, negotiation and tour plus mentoring from the IGC and Derby Theatre teams.
Meet our first exciting cohort of artists…
Kasia Cichocka
Kasia graduated in Theatre Arts from the University of Derby in July 2022. She recently completed a series of masterclasses in production and fundraising with Facciocose Theatre and took part in a Research and Development phase with Mind Out Theatre as a creative mentee for their upcoming production of Purdah. Kasia intends to establish a devising theatre company and, as a migrant, focus on highlighting experiences of queer and international communities.
Joanna Saw
Based in Derby, Joanna has a keen understanding of the importance of developing theatre in the Midlands and investing in artists. She is particularly interested in promoting the value of theatre in local communities.
Kate Spencer
Kate is a Nottinghamshire-based actor, photographer, workshop facilitator and lecturer. She trained at Rose Bruford College, London and Columbia College, Chicago and was a 2022-2023 New Associate of New Perspectives.
Josie White
Josie White is a Nottingham actor, writer and producer of colour. Josie began writing her first full length play, ROTTEN under the mentorship of Rikki Beadle-Blair MBE, and is dedicated to creating work with strong female leads and which shines a spotlight on the lives of modern Midlands’ people and Mental Health.
Jen Sullivan (Creative Producer, In Good Company) said:
“We’re thrilled to have found four exceptional early-career producers who each have exciting plans for the future. We’re looking forward to working with them on the programme and seeing the positive impact they will undoubtedly make on the wider arts ecology in the Midlands.”
Lilli Geissendorfer (Director of Jerwood Arts) said:
“Pathways into producing in theatre and the performing arts are still few and far between. We’re delighted to see these four set their sights on changing the producer landscape across the Midlands and beyond, and grateful to Derby Theatre and In Good Company for running such an open and rigorous selection process. We look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength.”
