All the details about our job opportunities are listed below.

Paid Mentorship Scheme

Early-Career Theatre Artists

April 2026 – October 2026
Fee: £500

Ransack Theatre is excited to invite applications from Greater Manchester-based emerging theatre artists in any creative discipline for a 6-month mentorship programme from April 2026 to October 2026.

This opportunity is for early-career directors, performers, designers, movement directors or producers who are looking to develop their skills, receive 1:1 guidance from Ransack Theatre’s core creative and producing team, and get invaluable rehearsal room experience. 

We will be selecting 2 artists for this programme.

What’s Included:

• A £500 bursary to support your time and engagement.

• Three formal mentorship meetings with the Ransack team or external collaborators, tailored to your needs and process.

• An invitation to join Ransack in the rehearsal room for our next two productions. Observe, contribute, and immerse yourself in our working methods.

• Ongoing artistic dialogue and peer support throughout the scheme.

We are looking for applicants who are passionate about and committed to a career in theatre and entertainment, and who are eager to learn. To be eligible for this opportunity, you must be: 

• 18 - 25 years old

• Be based in Greater Manchester

We’re particularly interested in encouraging applications from artists who are historically underrepresented in the sector, including global majority, LGBTQIA+ & Disabled artists.

Applications close: 1pm on Wednesday 11th March 2026 

To apply, please fill out this Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form. If you would rather, you can submit a video application (no more than 5 minutes in length) via the form as well. Don’t worry about having a professional standard video; a selfie video on your phone will suffice. We’re more interested in how you’re communicating and responding to the application questions.

If you have any questions regarding this opportunity, please contact Ali Michael on ransacktheatre@gmail.com

FAQs:

Who is this programme for?

This programme is for emerging theatre artists aged 18–25 who are based in Greater Manchester and are serious about developing a career in theatre or live performance. You might be a director, performer, designer, producer, writer, movement director, or working across multiple roles.

Why is it only for artists in Greater Manchester?

Because Ransack are a Greater Manchester theatre company and we are committed to supporting the next generation of theatre artists in the local ecology.

Do I need formal training or a degree?

No. You do not need a degree or professional credits. We are interested in your potential, curiosity, and commitment, not your CV. But we expect successful applicants to demonstrate their commitment to a career in the arts and an existing engagement with developing a professional theatre practice.

What does an “emerging artist” mean?

For this opportunity, we define “emerging” as someone in the early stages of their creative career. This could include recent graduates, self-taught artists or community practitioners. In this instance, we are looking for young emerging artists, rather than returning emerging artists. 

When does the programme run?

The mentorship runs for 6 months, from April 2026 to October 2026.

How much time will I need to commit?

You should expect:

• Three 1:1 mentorship sessions

• Attendance in some rehearsals during June 2026 or Sept/Oct 2026.

• Occasional check-ins and peer support sessions

Exact dates will be discussed with the selected artists.

Is this programme paid?

Each selected artist will receive a £500 bursary to support their time, travel, and engagement.

Do I have to pay a fee to take part?

No. There is no application fee and no cost to participate.

How many people will be selected?

We will select two artists for this cohort.

Can I apply if I work in more than one discipline?

Absolutely. We welcome multi-disciplinary artists and those still discovering where they fit within theatre.

Can I apply if I’ve never worked in a professional rehearsal room?

Yes! This programme is designed to introduce you to professional rehearsal environments.

What will I actually be doing in the rehearsal room?

You will be able to observe, ask questions, support the team, and take part in discussions. You will not be expected to “lead” or perform unless agreed in advance.

Is this a job?

No. This is a mentorship and learning opportunity, not an employment contract.

Do I need to be available in person?

Yes. You must be able to travel to rehearsal spaces in and around Greater Manchester. Mentor meetings may take place online.

Can I apply by video or audio?

Yes. You can submit a video or audio application (up to 5 minutes) instead of written answers.

Will travel or access costs be supported?

The bursary is intended to help cover travel and access needs. If you have additional access requirements, please let us know in the Access section of the form.

What happens after I apply?

• Applications close 1pm, Wednesday 18 March 2026

• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 20-minute online interview

• All applicants will be notified of the outcome

Can I apply again if I’m not selected?

Yes! We encourage you to apply again for future opportunities.