About
ShowStarter offers business development training and advice to performing artists at different levels of their career. We have various programmes to support School or College students as well as Post Graduates and artists with an existing background of experience.
Aimed at improving the work prospects of all participants the programme is designed to give information and signpost to opportunities and support networks that are available. The project engages experienced practitioners from the industry to lead seminars and masterclasses in business training. Alongside this there are one-to-one advice sessions, networking opportunities and intensive courses.
ShowStarter was piloted in 2006/2007 as a collaboration between PANDA and the University of Salford, funded by ESF (European Social Fund).
ShowStarter successfully completed its pilot year and reached 177 beneficiaries from graduates to final year students, as well as emerging companies who are in the first stages of development. Within the programme there were 8 masterclasses, 18 seminars, a networking event, 2 intensive courses and 9 drop in advice sessions.
The project engaged with professionals from across the region such as Artistic Directors, Agents, Administrators, Stage Managers and Producers. Sessions ranged from masterclasses on ‘Setting up a theatre company' and ‘Relationships with venues' to seminars on ‘Being self employed', ‘Planning your business' and ‘Project Management'.
ShowStarter has now developed into a series of programmes:
- ShowStarter Introduction to… the performing arts: A series of sessions aimed at FE (Further Education), this has been piloted at City College Manchester.
- ShowStarter Introduction to… sessions: Aimed at final year University students and emergent artists.
- ShowStarter, main programme: Aimed at participants of Introduction to… and PANDA members.
The Masterclasses are led by a panel of professionals who have expert knowledge in their field, they give an in-depth look at the subject and the industry. They give an array of information and shared experiences. There are also question and answer sessions.
The Seminars are informative and practical sessions with a professional from the industry. They are designed for participants to learn from the professionals’ expertise and have any queries answered in a question and answer session.
The Intensive Courses take place in partnership with other arts service providers and are responding to the current sector needs.
The programme can be adapted to accommodate any individual requirements. ShowStarter can compliment courses in Schools – such as BTECs, University Courses, MA’s, specific dance courses etc.
For further information on this please contact Liz on 0161 274 0629 or email liz@panda-arts.org.uk