STAGE ONE Launches ONE STAGE

• STAGE ONE launches ONE STAGE - A season of work produced by emerging producers at St. James Theatre in Autumn 2014

• STAGE ONE is now inviting applications from emerging producers for the three five-week runs which will be supported by the charity

Stage One has today announced the launch of ONE STAGE, a season of three commercial theatre productions, to be produced by Stage One emerging producers, at the St. James Theatre in the autumn of 2014.

Stage One, the charity committed to developing and supporting producers for the commercial theatre industry, has today invited emerging producers to apply for the opportunity to pitch a commercial production to a panel of industry professionals which will choose three that it feels have commercial potential and will most enhance the future prospects of the producer. The deadline for first-round submissions is Friday 17th January 2014 at midday.

This initiative adds another strand to Stage One's development programme which includes apprenticeships, bursaries, Start-Up awards and workshops.

Stage One will be making a financial investment in each production, equal to the rent for the period, and will provide support and advice to the producers throughout the production process.

However, Stage One has created a model which means that each producer will experience all the challenges and potential risks involved in the theatre producing industry.

Joseph Smith (Chief Executive) said "Our plan is to provide an opportunity which further prepares producers for the demands and risks that await them in the West End. While Stage One will make a small financial investment and, of course, make available the advice and expertise of its trustees and advisors, the responsibility for producing the five week run of the play or musical will lie solely with the emerging producers. We're always impressed by the standard of the individuals who become involved with the various Stage One programmes but, with One Stage, we feel we are creating an authentic and challenging scheme that will test these individuals in all of the multiple skills that a commercial theatre producer has to master."

Luke Johnson (Chair) said "It is vital that the entrepreneurial spirit in new producers is nurtured and supported so that the industry continues to thrive. One Stage will continue the work of Stage One in its support of producers putting on work they believe can be commercially successful".

The season will take place at the St. James Theatre from September through to mid-December 2014.

Stage One will also conduct seminars, workshops and networking events focused on the charity's core work during the One Stage season.

Go to www.stageone.org.uk for full information on the application process and timeline, or emailenquiries@stageone.uk.com or call 0207 557 6737.

Stage One is the operating name of the Theatre Investment Fund Ltd, a registered charity number 271349. Patrons of Stage One include Sir Cameron Mackintosh, Lord Richard Attenborough, Dames Judi Dench and Maggie Smith.

Stage One exists to support commercial theatre producers in order to sustain the quality of commercial theatre throughout the UK. Stage One identifies, supports, guides and trains emerging theatre entrepreneurs whilst simultaneously encouraging creative, successful and responsible practice. Stage One invests in new commercial theatre productions which fulfil its investment criteria and are within its investment guidelines which should be promoted as a standard for the Theatre Industry.

Stage One supports new theatre producers with industry-led training workshops, bursaries, Apprenticeships, Start-Up investment, mentoring and advice. Stage One's structured development programme is intrinsically linked with industry, providing unparalleled opportunities to gain hands-on experience. In the current economic climate and with arts funding cuts, Stage One's work has become all the more vital to the future of UK theatre.

In addition, Stage One can also offer central London office space to ONE STAGE PRODUCERS. The New Producers Hub is in the heart of the West End and is generously supported by Shaftesbury PLC.

The charity also offers an intensive course specifically designed for those who have little or no experience in commercial producing, but have a firm commitment to a career in theatre production. www.stageone.uk.com

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