Creative Rise Cornwall is a free six-month artist development programme for early career dance and theatre artists based in Cornwall. After a successful launch in 2025, we are thrilled to be running a second edition of the programme from September 2026 – March 2027.
Led by Katie Lusby, the programme is fully funded by Arts Council England and supported by our partners AMATA Arts Centre, Falmouth University, and HUSA at Hall for Cornwall, making participation entirely free.
2026 Programme
2-Week Physical Theatre LAB: 1st - 11th September 2026
This year's programme includes:
At the heart of Creative Rise Cornwall is our intensive two-week Physical Theatre LAB - a space for artists to train, experiment, collaborate, and connect. Led by Katie and an exciting line-up of guest artists (to be announced soon), the LAB combines cross-disciplinary workshops with collaborative making days, allowing participants to immediately put new ideas and approaches into practice.
Open Studio and Networking Event: 11th September 2026
The LAB will culminate in an Open Studio sharing at AMATA Arts Centre, where the cohort will present work developed during the two weeks to invited artists, organisations, industry professionals, and local audiences from across Cornwall. Following the sharing, there will be time for conversation and networking with guests and fellow artists.
Ongoing Support, Mentoring and Career Guidance
For 6 months after the LAB, the cohort will continue to receive support through group sessions and one-to-one mentoring with Katie, Hall for Cornwall’s Artist Development team, and some exciting guest speakers. These sessions are shaped around the needs of the group and offer practical guidance, industry insight, and continued connection beyond the intensive.
Paid Facilitation Opportunities
In Autumn 2026 and Spring 2027, Creative Rise will work with 6 secondary schools across Cornwall, offering free physical theatre workshops focused on creative collaboration. Cohort members interested in facilitation and teaching will have the opportunity to co-deliver these workshops alongside Katie, gaining paid professional experience working with young people in educational settings.
Financial Support
Thanks to the support of our funders and partners, participation in this programme is completely free. All participants will receive a £100 stipend towards expenses. In addition, one bursary place is available for someone who may otherwise be unable to attend the programme due to financial or personal circumstances.