NTC - InterACT

The Purpose

InterACT is an exciting initiative that arose out of the ACE National Theatre Policy Review in 2000 to address challenges in the region.

There is a shortage of resident performing arts practitioners.
The investment of £1.7 million from the ACE Review, substantially increased the amount of theatre work and job opportunities in the region.
The purpose of this training development programme is to act as a transitionary stage between education / training and the profession, resulting in a pool of fully employable theatre practitioners to be retained in the region.

InterACT is a vehicle for vocational training and personal development.

The Host

NTC Touring Theatre Company (NTC) is a professional small-scale touring theatre company, based in Alnwick, Northumberland and revenue funded by Arts Council England, North East. NTC Touring Theatre Company has been chosen to manage and mentor this training programme under the guidance of its Artistic Director, Gillian Hambleton.

The Programme

InterACT is a 44 week, fully mentored training programme that will include an active placement with one or more professional theatre companies. The scheme is managed by NTC in Alnwick, Northumberland but placements for the first six months of the scheme will be with companies throughout the country as well as the Northern region. Trainees will also have the opportunity to increase their skills base through master classes with a range of renowned practioners and showcase work throughout the region. Details of the masterclasses available to the 2009/10 intake of the scheme are available here.

InterACT is a training programme covering four main areas of theatre practice: acting; directing; design and stage management.

Trainees will be expected to have a degree or higher education industry-training certificate or significant amateur/semi-professional experience.
In addition they will have ambition, commitment and talent.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity of working with a theatre company / companies on an active placement: taking part in a production from first rehearsal to closing night and on tour if appropriate.
Trainees will also have the opportunity to develop and increase their skills in areas highlighted in an initial 'skills audit' during the induction period through attendance at master classes in all aspects and styles of performance hosted by artistes of national and international renown and alongside other professional actors from the region.
Trainees will work as an ensemble, learning 'team' skills and have the opportunity to share their practise with other professionals in the region.
Trainees will be fully mentored on a one to one basis, professionally and personally by both their host company and a member of NTC, the scheme's management body.
This is an exceptional opportunity to exercise skills in a professional environment, to rehearse and play alongside experienced actors, directors, designers and stage managers and gain 'on the job' experience.
All applicants will either originate from the North of England, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Cleveland, Durham and Cumbria or have received their higher education / theatre training in those counties.
Applicants must be willing and able to work away from the Northern Region on placement for periods of up to 6 Months.

All InterACT trainees will receive a modest training bursary and some additional support for travel and necessary relocation.