Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham
Training and performance programme for emerging artists

Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham

Birmingham Volunteer No home office possible
Youth Music

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join a creative team to develop and perform in an exciting new gig-theatre show.
  • Company: Diverse City, a vibrant arts organisation focused on inclusivity.
  • Benefits: Gain invaluable performance experience and professional development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a powerful narrative exploring identity and belonging through live music and storytelling.
  • Qualifications: No formal training required; just bring your passion and unique perspective.
  • Other info: Travel, accommodation, and access support costs covered for participants.

Diverse City are currently looking for 1 actor/musician (aged 18-30) to help us create our new show, The Other Life I Lead. We are keen to hear from Black, Asian, and Global Majority performers who identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or who are disabled. This show is part of a structured professional development programme for early-career performers.

You don’t need formal training — we’re interested in you, your skills, and your point of view. You will work in a small group to develop advanced performance, musicianship and devising skills. The programme includes performances at national venues and festivals, providing vital professional stage experience. Travel, accommodation and access support costs will be covered. Please note that this is an unpaid, career development opportunity for early-career artists. Participation is voluntary.

About the show you will develop and perform: The Other Life I Lead is a high-energy piece of gig-theatre that explores identity, belonging and the versions of ourselves we’re taught to keep quiet. Set in a small seaside town, the show follows a group of young people caught between staying put and stepping out. Through live music, storytelling and raw performance, they wrestle with who they are, who they’re expected to be, and what it takes to live out loud. Part gig, part confession, part coming-of-age howl, The Other Life I Lead blends punk-rock grit, pop ballads and acoustic storytelling into a fiercely joyful celebration of queer and disabled lives.

Who are we looking for? Actor/musicians (aged 18-30) who are keen to push their skills further and gain professional performance experience and who feel a connection to the character descriptions below. We particularly welcome applications from performers whose lived experience reflects the character descriptions.

  • RED – the leader of the band, a strong vocalist and guitar player (both electric and acoustic). Red is a queer person in their 20s navigating coming out. Red carries the narrative of the show through poetic spoken word and song.
  • SUN – a strong dancer in their 20s, and a close friend to Red. Sun is Learning Disabled, joyful, expressive and determined. Although it is not a requirement, if you also play a musical instrument, that’s very welcome.
  • SEASON – plays more than one instrument in the band. Season is queer, in their 20s, out and proud, a leader within their community. Season could be played by a drag artist, a trans or gay performer: lived experience would be valued in this role.
  • JADE – plays more than one instrument in the band. Jade is neurodivergent and is experienced at masking to fit in. Jade is a childhood friend to Red and Sun. Lived experience would be valued in this role.
  • SKY – plays more than one instrument in the band. Sky is queer, confident but vulnerable. Sky uses code switching as a survival tool for moving between social worlds. They fall in love with Red. Lived experience would be valued in this role.

Key Dates: You should be available for the following dates:

  • 20–22 May 2026 | Birmingham (Residency)
  • 20–24 July 2026 | Poole Lighthouse (Rehearsal week)
  • 26–31 July 2026 | Hull (Festival presentation)
  • 6–9 September 2026 | Dorset (Festival performance, subject to confirmation)

There is a lot more information about this opportunity on our website.

Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham employer: Youth Music

Diverse City is an exceptional employer for emerging artists, offering a unique opportunity to develop your performance skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. With a focus on professional growth, our programme provides invaluable experience through performances at national venues and festivals, while also covering travel, accommodation, and access support costs. Join us in creating a vibrant piece of gig-theatre that celebrates identity and belonging, all while being part of a community that values diverse voices and lived experiences.
Youth Music

Contact Detail:

Youth Music Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham

✨Tip Number 1

Get your networking game on! Reach out to fellow artists, attend workshops, and join online communities. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream role.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a short video showcasing your performance abilities or a piece of music. We want to see your unique style and personality shine through, so don’t hold back!

✨Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t just wait for opportunities to come to you. Apply through our website and keep an eye on social media for any open calls. We’re always looking for fresh talent!

✨Tip Number 4

Stay true to yourself! When auditioning or networking, let your authentic self come through. We value your lived experiences and perspectives, so embrace what makes you unique!

We think you need these skills to ace Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham

Acting Skills
Musicianship
Performance Skills
Devising Skills
Vocal Skills
Instrument Proficiency
Dance Skills
Storytelling
Collaboration
Expressiveness
Adaptability
Lived Experience Awareness
Creative Thinking
Confidence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Be Yourself: We want to see the real you! Don’t stress about formal training or fancy jargon. Just share your skills, experiences, and what makes you unique. Let your personality shine through in your application!

Connect with the Characters: Take a moment to really connect with the character descriptions in the job listing. If you feel a connection to any of them, let us know! Share your thoughts on how your lived experience relates to the roles.

Show Your Passion: We’re looking for enthusiasm and a genuine love for performance. In your application, tell us why this opportunity excites you and how it aligns with your artistic journey. We want to feel your passion!

Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of everything and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at Youth Music

✨Know Your Characters

Familiarise yourself with the characters in 'The Other Life I Lead'. Think about how your own experiences relate to them. This will help you connect on a deeper level during the interview and show your genuine interest in the role.

✨Showcase Your Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your performance skills, whether it's singing, playing an instrument, or dancing. Bring along any relevant materials or recordings that highlight your talents. This is your chance to shine, so make it count!

✨Be Authentic

This opportunity values your unique perspective and lived experiences. Be open about who you are and what you bring to the table. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates, so don’t hold back!

✨Ask Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the programme and the creative process. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Plus, it demonstrates that you’re engaged and proactive!

Training and performance programme for emerging artists in Birmingham
Youth Music
Location: Birmingham

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