Applications are now being accepted for Iris Theatre’s startDIRECTING 2021 development scheme, which supports those wanting to forge a career in directing for theatre.

Now in its second year, the programme supports four applicants who have yet to receive any formal training in directing but wish to pursue a career in this field. startDIRECTING runs from May – December 2021 with regular online sessions, curated and hosted by the company’s Artistic Director, Paul-Ryan Carberry.

Those participants will also be given placements as Assistant Directors across Iris Theatre’s Summer Festival and Winter Season - allowing the opportunity to apply some of the skills gained in learning sessions in a practical environment. 

Carbery said: “We are really delighted to be moving ahead with our second year of startDIRECTING. It is vital that artists at the very beginning of their careers are afforded opportunities to nurture and celebrate their creative instincts. I’d like to give a huge shout out to our regular monthly donors, without their vital generosity, these schemes would not be possible. We are so proud of our 2020 cohort, it was a joy to see them grow and flourish, and we look forward to welcoming and working with another group of artists.”

For further information and to apply, please click here. The deadline for applications is Friday 3 April at 6pm.