Spare Parts Puppet Theatre (SPPT) and Edith Cowan University (ECU) invite applications from artists who wish to join the yearlong emergent puppetry artist program, FirstHand. The program offers twelve months of rigorous training, networking and devising with leaders in the field of puppetry.
It is suited to applicants with a strong skills base in performing or design who have recently completed an undergraduate degree. Consideration will also be given to those with a high level of other training or experience.
The program operates at SPPT on a fee-free, part-time basis. It requires a variable but sustained time commitment of eight hours per week during the first six months. Additional time is then required for participation in creative developments, observation of rehearsals and performances, undertaking grant applications or research, and engaging in masterclasses. Meetings with ECU and SPPT mentors also form an integral and regular part of the program.
On completion of the initial training and development phase, participants are offered a contract of paid employment for the rehearsal and performance of a new work to be toured throughout regional Western Australia in 2012. Artists may also continue working with SPPT beyond FirstHand through its Company Associate program.
Interested students and recent graduates (within the last 5 years) must apply by close of business Friday July 8th, 2011. Expressions of interest should include (1) your contact details and CV (2) a recent photograph (3) a one-page letter outlining your capacity to commit to this year long initiative and why you want to participate. Send your application to SP email or PO Box 897, Fremantle, Western Australia, 6959.
Shortlisted applicants will need to attend a workshop audition during July 2011.
A selection panel will then consider: relevant experience and/or training in performance or design; skill level in chosen field; capacity to initiate creative ideas; ability to work easily in a team; commitment to an arts career and an interest in puppetry.
Notifications will be made by the end of July 2011 with training and development commencing August 1st 2011. For more information contact Philip Mitchell, Artistic Director, Spare Parts Puppet Theatre via email or on 08 933 5044, or Dr Julie Robson, Edith Cowan University,