Mayflower Theatre’s Higher Education Bursary Scheme has been designed to support individuals in the local community who want to progress in a career within the arts, whether that is as a performer, a technician or an arts administrator.
Mayflower Theatre recognises particularly in the current climate, how key it is to support young people with this and look forward to being able to give back to the community through this scheme.
The Higher Education Bursary Scheme is open to individuals between the ages of 18 – 25 who reside in Hampshire. Support is prioritised to those who are either attending a degree course or audition run by a member of The Federation of Drama and Dance Schools; experiencing financial or other hardship or who demonstrate outstanding commitment and achievement in their art form.
Michael Ockwell, Chief Executive of Mayflower Theatre says: “I am delighted that we are continuing the Higher Education Bursary Scheme in 2023.
“We have already had a positive impact on so many young people’s careers and in the last 12 months we have awarded £19,000 in bursary monies to seven aspiring performers, and we cannot wait to continue to support more individuals through this scheme.”
Patrick O’Sullivan, Head of Creative Learning adds: “It is so important to us as a theatre, we can provide an inspiring experience to all ages.
“The Higher Education Bursary Scheme is one of many initiatives we have to help engage young people into the world of the arts. In the current economic climate we want to help ensure that financial barriers do not limit young people’s opportunities.”
One recipient of the Higher Education Bursary for 2022-2023 was Petra Joan-Athene, whose has been visiting Mayflower Theatre since a young age with the theatre being just minutes away from her home.
“The Bursary has definitely given me a confidence boost in that I could continue my training with the ‘financial armbands’ I needed to keep me afloat,” she explains.
“I am very grateful to have received the bursary and I think it’s such a wonderful scheme that gives other local aspiring performers the support they need.’”
Petra has now booked her first theatre contract following her time at Bristol Old Vic and is excited to see where her career progresses.
The scheme provides up to £50,000 per year to individuals with an interest in acting, dance, music, writing, technical theatre and other arts-related professions.
With a maximum amount of £3,000 per awardee, there are also additional ‘special’ awards of up to £9,000 for those who have exceptional potential or unique talent and ideas.
Mayflower Theatre encourages any individuals between the ages of 18 – 25 who reside in Hampshire to apply if they are looking to pursue a career in the arts.
The Higher Education Bursary scheme encourages young people to apply before the deadline of 8 December 2023.
To apply or find out more information please visit: https://www.mayflower.org.uk/get-involved/education/higher-education-bursary-scheme.
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