From September this year the newly redeveloped Leeds Playhouse and Bristol’s Tobacco Factory Theatres will each host Directors on an 18-Month Residency.
Director Jay Crutchley will be placed at Tobacco Factory Theatres and director Sameena Hussain in Leeds Playhouse, both with the opportunity to direct their own production as part of each theatre’s programme.
“I am excited to learn about the Playhouse and it’s various cogs and how it all works, about myself and what I need to do to become the director I want to be. I have a lot of respect and admiration for both James [Artistic Director] and Amy [Associate Director], to have the opportunity to be mentored by them is an absolute gift” – Sameena Hussain
James Brining, Artistic Director of Leeds Playhouse says:
“We are delighted to be partnering again with RTYDS to find and nurture the next generation of artists; the relationship has spanned many years and follows in the footsteps of leading cultural figures like Vicky Featherstone who notably started their long and successful career here through an RTYDS scheme.
Sameena Hussain is an inspiring artist, whose passion and commitment shone through brightly. The team and I are looking forward to working with her and seeing how she grows as an artist and a cultural leader as well as being moved forward as an organisation by her ideas and energy.”
Mike Tweddle, Artistic Director of Tobacco Factory Theatres:
“I’m delighted to be working with RTYDS Resident Assistant Director Jay Crutchley. He’s a passionate artist and facilitator, who has done some excellent and ambitious directing and has a clear vision for the work – and change – he wants to make.
“He has experienced barriers to accessing the performing arts and is motivated to help eradicate those barriers for others. I’m excited about the positive contribution he’ll make to our organisation, and how much he’ll get out of the opportunity, and being part of our great team!”
The scheme seeks out the most talented theatre directors at the early stage of their careers and helps develop their skills and experience by placing them in theatres outside London.
“I’m really excited to be part of a growing venue in a thriving arts community and I’m looking forward to growing with the Tobacco Factory Theatres over the next 18 months. It’s an exciting chance to learn and hone my craft as a director and to connect with the people of Bristol” – Jay Crutchley
The 18-month residency also covers all the elements of the theatre’s day-to day-running; finance, development, producing, administration, marketing and publicity are all part of the training.
“We are thrilled to work with these leading UK theatres to bring new and emerging talent to the cultural landscape,” says Artistic Director of RTYDS Sue Emmas.
“Theatres are complex buildings,” concludes Sue. “The high level of work that goes into them before there is even a production, before the doors open, is incredible. We believe it’s important that our Directors understand that because we want to create future leaders in theatre; the names we have worked with up to now would suggest that we are achieving that.”