Off Grid
Off Grid is a platform for theatremakers to share new work in development with a live audience in a supportive, professional environment, offering you the chance to test ideas, gain valuable audience feedback, and connect with industry professionals and fellow artists.
We’re looking for bold, original theatre work, at any stage of development, that has the potential to grow into a touring production.
Following the showcase, Arts Alive and The Courtyard, Hereford will work with selected artists to explore next steps for their work, including opportunities to develop a full studio performance and/or tour through the rural touring network.
Off Grid isn’t just a showcase – it’s a stepping stone, helping theatremakers refine their work, build new relationships and develop opportunities for future performances.
‘Arts Alive have offered us invaluable support at this stage in our career. They’ve not only given us a platform to test new writing, but have also shared their time, energy, and guidance to help us make our work the best it can be. They are actively working to break down barriers to access in the arts world, and their event felt like a truly warm and supportive community. This kind of support is vital to the landscape of new performance and has given us clear, concrete next steps.’
– Sally Horowitz and Benjamin Way, performers at Arts Alive Off Grid Showcase, October 2025
Dates for Your Diary:
Applications Open: 6th July
Applications Close: 1st September
Shortlisted Artists Notified*: w/c 7th September
Rehearsal Day: 12th October
Performance Date: 13th October
*Please note, if you are not contacted directly you have not been successful on this occasion.
Apply Now
Pitch Up (rural)
Calling all theatre-makers: rural touring needs you!
PITCH UP (rural) offers an exclusive opportunity to pitch your show to touring schemes from across the UK.
• Never toured your show on the rural network before?
• Have toured but only with some of the network?
• Have toured but not for a while?
PITCH UP (rural) provides a friendly and collaborative space, where you can pitch your show to programmers from across the rural touring network via a digital showcase.
We spend 2 hours together with an experienced panel of rural touring professionals, who are keen to learn more about your show and also help answer your questions, address concerns, and explore how rural touring could be a great opportunity for your production.
It’s also an opportunity to see your peers work, and the journey they are on within the rural network. After the showcase programmers can contact companies they are interested in booking, or to continue the conversation and discuss potential opportunities.
Professional Development Opportunities
Arts Alive regularly run and support development workshops and opportunities for artists, including workshops, Pitch Up, Off Grid and more.
Join our Artists’ Mailing List to be one of the first to hear about upcoming opportunities:
A previous workshop held in partnership with Pentabus and ThickSkin
Interested in touring the rural network?
We are always looking to support artists and companies who have not toured the network before or not toured for a long time. Find out more by clicking the button below…
Tour with us