Westacre Theatre offers around 8-10 privately funded, residential placements per year for performing arts undergraduates, graduates & early-career artists, giving them the chance to gain hands-on experience in a professional, rural theatre, working on multiple productions, receiving mentoring, and developing their skills. It’s a unique, immersive opportunity to build your portfolio, expand your network, and kickstart your career in a creative, friendly and excellence-driven, theatre environment.
Westacre Theatre is an independent, rural, theatre and arts centre based in the village of West Acre, Norfolk. Housed in a converted historic chapel, and with an expansive outdoor auditorium for the summer months, we are known for championing, emerging artists and innovative performance, while also serving our local community. The theatre provides a platform for professional productions, artist development, workshops and residencies, with a strong focus on accessibility, participation and nurturing creative talent.
We audition and interview bursary candidates to join our highly respected theatre company on 2/3 full-scale productions, which take place during our outdoor summer season. These productions run either consecutively or in repertory. Whilst bursary recipients benefit hugely from the guidance of our directors, musicians, technical experts and extended team, all with extensive professional experience and industry expertise, we place huge value on the fresh perspectives and creative energy brought by new and emerging artists. Whilst the overall goal is to deliver the season’s productions those granted a Bursary Award also gain hands-on experience helping to deliver young people’s workshops, hosting musical events, taking part in front-of-house duties and all the other essential “roll your sleeves up” jobs that keep the theatre running smoothly. It’s a fully immersive opportunity to develop skills, work as part of a professional team, and experience every aspect of theatre life.
• Are you happy living and working in a rural setting for the summer, sharing space and responsibility with others? • Can you work well as part of a team, both on stage and behind the scenes, and be willing to muck in when needed? • Can you take feedback, deal with challenges calmly, and approach the work in a professional and constructive way? • Do you have the stamina and commitment needed to get through a full, intensive summer season? If you can comfortable answer yes, we'd love you to apply!
The Westacre Summer Bursary has long been a powerful springboard for emerging actors, musicians, dancers and technicians. Many former bursary students have gone on to successful careers across theatre, musical theatre, film and the wider creative industries, often citing their time at Westacre as a defining early experience. 2026 Summer Season will be announced ASAP – watch this space but expect high energy colourful versions of well-known classic pieces, told with an effusion of music, and always a quirky twist… Bursary Awards are designed to cover your expenses and are from £200 per week. Placements take place from Mid-July to the August Bank Holiday weekend. Accommodation is included where needed. Auditions are in person and will take place on Saturday 18th April For any questions contact sadie@westacretheatre.com 2026 Applications are open NOW!!!