The Old Vic 12
The Old Vic 12 is a scheme, introduced by artistic director Matthew Warchus, to provide emerging artists with paid experience, mentoring and help to develop their careers. It is backed by Ideas Tap and the Peter De Haan Charitable Trust.
More than 1,300 applications were received from playwrights, directors, producers, designers, composers and choreographers, leading to a shortlist of 250 before the Old Vic 12 was chosen.
Throughout the coming year, The Old Vic 12 will be individually mentored by Alexander Ferris, in addition to receiving a mentor specific to their discipline. The mentors, all industry experts in their field, include: Tara Wilkinson, Georgia Gatti, Max Webster, Rob Howell, Grant Olding and Drew McOnie.
They will also deliver a masterclass to participants in the very beginning stages of their careers and work together to present a showing of the three Old Vic 12 commissioned plays.
Speaking about The Old Vic 12, Matthew Warchus said:
“The selected 12 artists who will take part in our new programme, The Old Vic 12, are exceptionally talented people who we hope will benefit from the vitality and creativity of this unique theatre. We are excited to have them participate in the new season and to offer our assistance as they develop their practice in proximity to the great artists we have involved here at The Old Vic. Our aim is to nurture a new generation of theatre artists and we are grateful for the visionary financial support of Peter De Haan which has made The Old Vic 12 possible.”
In August, we launched the applications for The Old Vic 12, which reached a staggering 1,300. Between September to November, we interviewed over 250 applicants.
Of the interview process, Director of Old Vic New Voices, Alexander Ferris said:
“The substantial interview process for The Old Vic 12 was a wonderful opportunity to meet with so many inspiring, emerging artists. The sheer level of talent that is currently out there is massively encouraging. This process opened up The Old Vic to hundreds of creative individuals and I hope we can nurture these connections to ensure we continue reaching out to fantastic talent. We’ve selected an exceptional group of individuals to take part in the first Old Vic 12. With this scheme, we hope to support them to develop their skills and explore new creative heights in the surrounds of this buzzing historic theatre.”