– A unique project that seeks to create exciting and unexpected pairings between devising theatre companies and writers.

– Time, space and money without the demand to generate a show.

– A breathing space in which to experiment, to rejuvenate and to creatively grow.

– An opportunity to work in a NEW collaborative relationship with a writer sensitively chosen by the Dark Room Directors.

– A place to play, to try out new ways of working and interrogate old ones.

And all this without the demand to produce anything or be accountable to anyone. Without the pressure to describe the work before it is even conceived. Without the distraction of organising accommodation and administration. Without fear of judgement. Without fear of failure.

The Darkroom was initially conceived and continues to evolve as part of a careful and ongoing consideration of the development needs of devising theatre companies.

Project funding supports the making of new work BUT because it is product driven it often doesn’t allow theatre companies an opportunity to examine HOW that work is made.

The Darkroom aims to give respite from the cycle of producing and selling project funded work and rather aims to invest in the creative development of the artists that make it.

The Darkroom also seeks to challenge the perceived barriers between devising companies and more writer-led theatre practice and to break down the suspicions that exist on both sides.

Funders / Supporters