Off Stage Academy Plus

Our Off Stage Academy Plus course (a.k.a Kiln SPARKS Residency) is back for its third year running. This is a paid development programme run by New Vic Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, in association with New Earth Theatre for technical and production skills supporting entry-level and early-career Global Majority* backstage talent. 

The programme aims to expand the industry’s knowledge base for making theatre in-the-round and increase the pool of Global Majority backstage talent by providing the opportunity to work in a midscale, producing theatre.

This year we are offering a paid 3-day programme 16-18 July at the New Vic Theatre.  Participants will meet and shadow the inhouse technical and production teams and representatives from New Earth Theatre. After the completion of the initial 3-day programme, candidates will be able to express their interest for a further paid extended placement working with the teams on the New Vic Winter ‘25 or Spring ‘26 Season.    

The opportunity is for: entry-level sound and lighting technicians and Stage Managers who would like to expand their knowledge of technical processes; Early-career Production Managers who would like to expand their technical knowledge; Early-career Sound and Lighting Designers who have not yet worked in the round.  We're particularly keen to hear from applicants based in Staffordshire. There are 4 reserved places available for BESEA’s** out of a total of 8 places. The course will be led by Vicki Amedume. Participants in the 3 day programme will receive £250 plus per diems, accommodation, and travel expenses.

Course Dates: Wednesday 16th, Thursday 17th & Friday 18th July

Course Leader: Vicki Dela Amedume 

Location: New Vic Theatre, Newcastle Under Lyme 

Experience Level: Some previous experience of working in a backstage role and/or operating technical equipment in a theatre  setting is desired.