Ideas Fund: applications open

We believe that all children and young people should be represented and reflected in the performances and arts they experience. Both in terms of the stories being told and the performers who tell those stories. By working closely with us, other Vital Spark Artists and our partner organisations, we can make this a reality.

What is the Ideas Fund?

This is a unique opportunity for artists to receive financial support and expertise towards the development of a new piece of work created for children and young people aged 0-13 years.

We are looking for bold, exciting and original ideas. With the ultimate aim of helping us to achieve our ambition of a Performance for Young Audiences sector that is relevant to and representative of all children and young people.

Who will the selected artists be?

• Artists working in England
• Artists that share our vision of a sector more representative of children today
• Artists with experience of presenting their work in a professional context (at least twice)
• Artists that have an original, exciting and bold idea they wish to explore further
• Artists working in any form of performance (theatre, dance, performance poetry etc.)
• Artists that are underrepresented

This fund isn't for you just yet if you are at the start of your career and/or new to developing and performing work for live audiences.

Information for Applicants: How to apply

Download, watch or listen to the Information for Applicants - How to apply document:

Information for Applicants - British Sign Language:

Information for Applicants - Audio version with closed captions:

Expressions of interest: Application Form

Expressions of interest can be made by written, video or audio response. Please look at the written expression of interest form for a full breakdown of what is needed.

Submissions via video or written application must be sent to, vitalspark@thesparkarts.co.uk by October 11 2021

Question and answer sessions

If you're an artist interested in applying and have questions or would like to find out more from other Vital Spark artists we are running a series of relaxed online Information and Questions sessions.

Places will be limited. These will take place on:

Session 1 Tuesday 14 September: 2-3pm book here
Session 2 Tuesday 14 September: 3-4pm book here
Session 3 Tuesday 28 September: 2-3pm book here
Session 4 Tuesday 28 September: 3-4pm book here

These will be small group meetings, if you find small group Zoom meetings a barrier, then please do get in touch and we can arrange a one to one chat

Current Ideas Fund Artists

Have a look at the current Vital Spark Ideas Fund artists here

Want to know more?

If you can't make our question and answer sessions please feel free to get in touch with us, email: vitalspark@thesparkarts.co.uk or call us on 0116 261 6893.