Itch That Scratch

Hastings Theatre Project presents ‘Itch That Scratch', an artist development programme and performance evening for brand-new pieces of theatre made by local artists.

After much acclaim HTP is delighted to offer a second instalment of new work from local creatives on 28th March. You can buy tickets here and find out more about getting involved below.

WHAT IS IT?

'Itch That Scratch' is an artist development programme which supports Hastings artists to develop and showcase an idea they have. It will culminate in a scratch night at The Stables theatre on Friday 28th March 2025, which means audiences will get to experience a range of short, ten-minute excerpts over the course of an evening and feedback their thoughts to the artists involved.

The aims of this programme are:

to develop new shows
to showcase new ideas to new audiences in an accessible environment (performances will all be captioned and BSL-interpreted)
to form a collective of like-minded artists who can support and learn from one another
to get in-the-moment feedback from audiences
to offer support and understanding on pathways to getting this work produced

The programme is supported by our Associate Artist Eleanor Westbrook, who will also host the event at The Stables. You can buy your tickets now, by following this link.

HOW WILL IT WORK?

We're looking for a handful of artists to help complete our line-up.

Everyone who applies will meet up on Sunday 26th January to share their ideas, play around with other creatives and receive feedback & support from everyone else involved. Once we've selected these from the eligible applications, artists will be contacted and we'll help you to make your show, with the involvement of other members of the collective.

We expect each show to have minimal set & technical requirements, and relatively small casts. Other than that, we'll leave you to make the show you want to make!

Each artist involved will be paid at HTP's day rate of £150 to attend group rehearsals on Sunday 2nd February, Sunday 23rd March and the day of the show itself, Friday 28th March, and we will try to supportive with any associated access costs; this may include an access worker, childcare costs etc.

WHO IS IT FOR?

This programme is open to anyone 18+ who have an interest in making theatre and performance work. We're keen to build a community of artists who can support and nurture one another's practice, whilst also being open to learning and their own creative development.

You must be resident in one of the following postcodes: TN31, TN32, TN33, TN34, TN35, TN36, TN37, TN38, TN39, TN40. If you fall outside of this area but feel you want to be a part of Itch That Scratch, please contact us directly by emailing info@hastingstheatreproject.org.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 17th January.

All applicants will be invited to join the group meet-up on Sunday 26th January, and notified of their involvement in the scratch night shortly after. Where possible, we will provide feedback on your application.

HOW CAN I APPLY?

To apply, please fill out the form below with information about the show you want to make. We're also keen to know if you're interested in being involved even if you don't have an idea for a show or if we don't select your idea.

1. Name

2. Email address

3. How would you describe your theatre-making practice and experience as an artist? (are you an actor, writer, or director? where has your work been seen before? approx 100 words)

4. Name of your show (If you don't have a specific idea, but would like to be involved, skip to question 11)

5. Short description of your show (what happens? what will an audience feel? how will it look? approx 200 words)

6. Number of expected performers in the show

7. Do you need anyone to help you make it? (If yes, please specify who - other actors, director, etc)

8. Technical requirements (set, lighting, soung, etc)

9. What do you hope to get out of this opportunity (approx 150 words)

10. Please upload a current draft of the script if available, or any other useful supporting documents. You can also use this box to upload video or audio answers to the above questions if preferred.

11. Are you interested in being involved in the scratch night even if we don't select your piece (e.g as a performer in someone else's piece)?

12. Are you free on 26th January, 2nd February, 23rd March and 28th March?

13. Do you have any access requirements? (If yes, please give as much detail as you feel comfortable sharing)

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