Stage set for talent to thrive

A Northumberland-based theatre company is investing in the future of regional freelance talent with a revamped support programme.

Novo Theatre, formerly known as November Club, has relaunched its development programme as Novo Talent, continuing its commitment to supporting freelance theatre makers across the North East.

Building on the success of its previous GROW initiative, the scheme offers paid contracts, mentoring and training bursaries to freelancers in creative, producing and production roles. 

Since launching in June 2023, the programme has supported seven freelance beneficiaries with paid contracts, mentoring and training bursaries, with plans to expand its reach.

Amy Watts, theatre designer and Novo Talent beneficiary, said: “Novo Talent has helped me sustain a creative career in the North East. 

“Through freelance contracts and a development bursary I have been able to develop my practice and flourish since moving back to the region.”

The programme also works with schools to help young people explore careers in theatre through workshops, assemblies and work experience. 

More than 3000 pupils from five Northumberland secondary schools have already taken part in careers activities highlighting backstage and creative opportunities.

Danielle Towers, head of sixth form and careers at Duke’s Secondary School, in Ashington, added: “Working closely with Novo Theatre has provided our students with an opportunity to explore career pathways in the creative sector with a particular focus on theatre.

“Being a company situated very close to school has helped to break down barriers that students may have had about careers in this sector being mainly found in large cities. 

“As a result, this has increased the confidence of our students to consider this as a viable career pathway.”

The relaunch follows the company’s recent rebrand to Novo Theatre, marking a new chapter in its mission to nurture the region’s creative workforce.

Joe Hufton, chief executive and artistic director of Novo Talent, added: “Novo Talent is embedded into our programme. 

“The key to its success has been giving freelancers at all stages of their career meaningful contracts and control over their own continued professional development.

“We want to change perceptions of who can work in theatre, the roles available, and the value placed on creative careers.

“We particularly want to highlight to young people living in Northumberland and the North East that it’s possible to pursue a career in theatre right here, in our wonderful region.”

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