The Leeds Playhouse and Tobacco Factory Theatre in Bristol have announced recipients of the Regional Theatre Young Director Scheme (RTYDS) 18-Month Residency, placements they are hosting for the first time. The scheme seeks out the most talented theatre directors at the early stage of their careers and helps develop their skills and experience by placing them in theatres outside London.
Jay Crutchley (Tobacco Factory) and Sameena Hussain (Leeds Playhouse) have been awarded a paid residency and the opportunity to direct their own production as part of each theatre’s programme.
Crutchley says,
It’s an exciting chance to learn and hone my craft as a director and to connect with the people of Bristol.
Mike Tweddle, Artistic Director of Tobacco Factory Theatres says:
I’m delighted to be working with RTYDS Resident Assistant Director Jay Crutchley. He’s a passionate artist and facilitator, who has done some excellent and ambitious directing and has a clear vision for the work – and change – he wants to make.
He has experienced barriers to accessing the performing arts and is motivated to help eradicate those barriers for others. I’m excited about the positive contribution he’ll make to our organisation, and how much he’ll get out of the opportunity, and being part of our great team!
In addition to directing their own production, the 18-month residencies will also cover all elements of the theatre’s day-to day-running, including finance, development, producing, administration, marketing and publicity.
Both Crutchley and Hussain are due to start their residencies in September this year.
During the last five years, the RTYDS has placed 11 directors on similar residencies in venues across the UK. To find out more about RTYDS and their opportunities, please visit rtyds.co.uk
Tobacco Factory Theatres’ programme can be found at tobaccofactorytheatres.com
