THE HERDS Launch Training Programme

The Herds has announced a new training programme - The Emerging Company (E-Co) that will give young aspiring performers of all backgrounds the chance to join the new large-scale public art work. From April – August 2025, herds of life-size puppet animals will travel north from the Congo Basin to the Arctic Circle to flee climate disaster.

The Emerging Company (E-Co) is a once-in-a-lifetime 10-week intensive training programme that will create a springboard for future careers in the arts and give young people the opportunity to develop skills in puppetry and public art performance alongside puppeteer and puppetry director for The Walk, Craig Leo and world-class team of puppeteers Ukwanda Puppets & Designs Art Collective.

The Emerging Company (E-Co) will participate in large scale artistic performances across Europe's most exciting cities of culture including Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, London and Stockholm, engage with local artists, prominent arts and climate organisations and leaders in the industry and gain invaluable behind-the-scenes insights into the production of a major public artwork.

Ambassadors for THE HERDS David Oakes and Natalie Dormer, said, “Each new generation of artists are afforded certain unique opportunities; the Herds Emerging Company is right up there as one of the most exhilarating. It's a rare chance to hone one's craft, forge powerful connections, and all whilst showcasing a socially vital piece of performance art.”

The programme runs from May to August 2025 and is open to anyone aged 21-35 with a passion for movement, physical theatre, dance, and performance.

Find out more and apply via www.theherds.org/emerging-company by 21st February.