Tell us about the artist development work carried out by Pleasance Futures.
Pleasance Futures is our umbrella term for all the artist development initiatives that we run at Pleasance, acting as an incubator for bold new creatives to make their mark, presenting work at both our home in London and our home in Edinburgh.
Our work stretches from artist development through to working with schools and young people to ensure that we reach as many people and aspiring creatives as possible.
What is the process like for selecting new work for development?
We have several strands of artist development so the process varies for each one. All the initiatives are open submission as it gives us a great opportunity as producers to be introduced to lots of different, new and exciting work.
We run initiatives from scratch nights through to our London Associate programme through to our flagship fund, the Charlie Hartill Fund, so you’re able to introduce yourself to us at whatever level of development your work is at.
What are the key things you look for in creators seeking development?
We want to work with artists who are looking for transformative tools that we can offer which will enable them to take their work to the next level. As an organisation, we can help much more effectively, if you have specific asks for your work. We’re always on the lookout for work that is contemporary, playful and artistically questions and addresses the world that we find ourselves in and to work with artists that contribute positively to the creative landscape.
Was there anything that took you by surprise when it came to the artists you’ve considered for support this year?
It’s not that we are necessarily surprised, but we were so impressed with the preparation that had been made by the artists that we chose to support through our various initiatives. We love working with artists that are aware of the sheer amount of work outside of the actual creative process that is needed, from a marketing and producing standpoint, to make a show a success and are always delighted when we meet with companies who understand that.
What makes the shows that have been selected for this cohort so exciting?
The shows that have been chosen this year come from very different genres and spaces from cabaret through to comedy and puppetry. Our aim each year with our selection process is not only to deliver a diverse and thrilling programme of work that pushes creative boundaries but also work that people can recognise themselves in and that reflects the world and the people we see around us.
What are your hopes for the artists supported by this initiative?
The shows that we are presenting at Edinburgh have been brought about by our initiatives that focus on sustainability: how can our artists maintain their creative careers in an environment that is becoming increasingly hostile with cuts to services? We hope that all the artists that we work with feel like they complete their journeys with us, armed with an array of transformative tools that they can take forward with them.
We of course also hope that their shows are resounding successes at Edinburgh and in London but that goes without saying!
Do you have any advice for anyone hoping to submit work to initiatives like Pleasance Futures?
Come and chat to us before you apply! Our doors are always open in London and Edinburgh. Our team is happy to answer any questions that you might have on any of our programmes.
In terms of actually applying, clarity of vision is incredibly important and an awareness of what audience you are hoping to attract through your work.
You can find out more about the shows supported by Pleasance Futures and the other work they’re hosting this fringe season on their website.
