News

The Fringe Society is delighted to announce the launch of two programmes to aid emerging and working class producers in 2022 and 2023: the returning Emerging Producers Development Programme and a new pilot project, the Working-Class Producers Mentorship.

The Emerging Producers Development Programme (EPDP) has been running at the Fringe since 2012 and, with over 80 alumni, is a well-established and popular programme of career and network development opportunities for emerging UK-based producers. The 2022 programme is open to up to 15 emerging producers based in the UK, with priority given to producers who identify as disabled, working class or part of the global majority.  

The Working-Class Producers Mentorship is a new for 2022, aimed at Scotland-based participants looking to produce their first Fringe show in 2023. It is a year-round programme offering mentorship, advice and support to five working-class creatives whose primary role is that of the producer or self-producing artist. 

Shona McCarthy, the Fringe Society's Chief Executive, said: "The Fringe prides itself on being open to artists of all backgrounds, whether you are just starting out, or at the top of your career. There are many ways for artists on low income to access the festival, including taking part in the free models, as part of the street performing community, exploring Pay What You Can models and looking at performers' collectives or venue splits. Our team are here to help in researching the option that is the best fit."

"An important part of our work at the Fringe Society is to identify any areas where further support is needed for creatives, and to help tackle any additional barriers. We worked closely with our strategic partner COMMON Theatre to produce the Working Class Producers Mentorship, and we're delighted to be able to offer a programme of year-round support to creatives who identify as working class, and whose primary role is that of producer of self-producing artist. I truly look forward to seeing the great work this will create at the Fringe in 2023."

Applications for both programmes are open now, and close on Thursday 05 May 2022. Eligiblity criteria apply – find out more:

Development opportunities at the Fringe

Photo: David Monteith-Hodge, 2019.