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Commissioning Circle
A small number of Circle Members (around 5) fund the cost of commissioning a playwright to write a new play for Theatre Royal’s stage. As the commissioners of the play, Circle Members will play a significant part in enabling the theatre to produce an artistically excellent and creatively ambitious production each year.
“Last evening’s performance was truly magical. We came away totally enchanted by your superb creation, and cannot wait to find at least one more opportunity to be transported again to the land of Oz. The play resonates on so many levels and deserves the widest possible audience. Mike Akers has given us a masterpiece and deserves our deepest gratitude. We are both so proud to be involved and will treasure all the beautiful copies of the script you have given us.”
-The Wonderful Wizard of Oz – Commissioning Circle Member
“It has been such a privilege to be members of the Commissioning Circle. We have so enjoyed sharing the embryonic journey of the play, from the first readings to the final rehearsals. Meeting the playwright, the Director, the production personnel, and the cast. Sharing the many complexities of transferring this classic storybook onto the stage. Bravo, Theatre Royal!”
–The Secret Garden Commissioning Circle Member
“This is a unique opportunity for a keen theatre supporter to be part of the process of creating a new play for our stage. Commissioning new work allows us to create productions that are fresh and inspiring for our audiences.”
– Owen Calvert-Lyons, Artistic Director
As well as enabling the growth of the theatre’s artistic programme, other features of the programme include:
- Being the first to read the play at each stage of the drafting process and discuss its evolution
- A copy of the published play
- Backstage access, witnessing how the production develops, including exclusive insights from the director and invitations to a dress rehearsal
- Names credited in all materials including the published playtext, production programme, and on Theatre Royal’s website
- Tickets for Members and a guest to attend opening night, including the chance to meet the cast at a drinks reception after seeing the show and complimentary programmes for the production
It’s been a joy to work with the Commissioning Circle. Their sensitive and supportive feedback on drafts of the play, their encouragement and enthusiasm for the work, and their commitment to the process have not only contributed positively to the script’s development, but have heightened the fact that playwriting is a collaborative form that always benefits from the input of others. I am indebted to them.
-Nicola Werenowska, Playwright
Commissioning Circle Applications
Next year’s new play is yet to be decided! Please contact Emma Suckling via [email protected] for details about The Commissioning Circle as we continue to grow this exciting area of our work.
Working with the Funding Circle has been a complete pleasure from start to finish. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and encouragement were invaluable to me as writer. I am hugely admiring of and grateful for their commitment to supporting new work, not just in word, but in deed. I salute you all!
-Mike Akers, Playwright
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