Deadline for applications: Friday 5 February 2021
From today, Thursday 10 December 2020, applications are open for Scotland’s dance, theatre, and multi-artform sector to secure a share of £600,000 in National Lottery funding, distributed through Creative Scotland. This funding is specifically allocated to support live performance tours scheduled to begin in Spring 2021, offering a vital lifeline to the arts community during a challenging period.
This latest round of the Theatre and Dance Touring Fund invites applications from Scotland-based dance and theatre artists, companies, organisations, independent producers, and venues. The fund aims to support the creation and touring of new work or the restaging of existing productions, ensuring these can be presented to live audiences in at least three locations across Scotland, all while adhering to Covid-19 restrictions.
Iain Munro, Creative Scotland’s CEO, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “Supporting Scotland’s theatre and dance touring infrastructure is crucial, not only for maintaining the high quality of performances but also for ensuring that more people across the country can access and enjoy these cultural experiences.”
He added: “Made possible by the generosity of National Lottery players, who raise £30 million for good causes across the UK every week, this round of the Theatre and Dance Touring Fund directly addresses the significant challenges faced by theatres, venues, producers, artists, companies, and audiences due to the Covid-19 pandemic.”
In addition to funding applications, Creative Scotland is seeking five external panel members to join the decision-making process for this round of the fund. These panel members are expected to bring credible professional knowledge and expertise in the Theatre and Dance Touring sector in Scotland, whether from a programming perspective or as makers/producers of touring work. The deadline for panel member applications is 12 noon on Thursday 7 January 2021, with submissions to be made through the Scottish Government e-Tendering System, Public Contracts Scotland.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for Scotland’s arts sector to recover and thrive, ensuring that live performances can continue to reach diverse audiences across the country. For those eligible, this funding could provide the resources needed to adapt to current restrictions while maintaining the vibrancy and creativity that define Scottish theatre and dance.
Key Takeaways:
- Apply for funding by Friday 5 February 2021.
- Ensure your project includes live performances in at least three Scottish locations, compliant with Covid-19 guidelines.
- Consider applying to join the external panel if you have relevant expertise—deadline is Thursday 7 January 2021.
- Explore the full details and application process on the Creative Scotland website.
