Made in Bristol

A new Made in Bristol for 2026!

Made in Bristol is a free training programme for Bristol-based theatre makers aged 18–25.

Each year, we look for theatre makers of all disciplines, including actors, performers, designers, facilitators, stage managers, technicians, lighting designers, choreographers, musicians, and composers.

The cohort become resident at Bristol Old Vic, spending two days a week in the theatre from January to July, followed by a full-time residency in September and October.

This year, to celebrate the 260th anniversary of the theatre, we have launched MIB 260. As part of the programme, the Made in Bristol cohort will deliver a free Theatre in Education tour, presenting two productions to secondary schools across Bristol. These productions will be directed by Lisa Gregan (Literary and Directors' Associate) and Rikki Henry (Associate Artistic Director).

Throughout the programme, participants will receive training, mentoring, and practical experience across a range of disciplines, including performance, design (set, costume, sound, and lighting), technical theatre, stage management, and facilitation.

Now in its sixteenth year, 2026’s Made in Bristol welcomes: Winnie Atkinson Harris, Eve Dagba, Cassie Davies, Ben Lamb, Guy Rudin, Lucia Moussalli, Carmel Sandom-Brown, Rhys Polis-Smith, Sebastian Stevens, Laila Saykouk, Jake Janaway, Em Tomlinson and Biba Vann.