Artist Development - Middle Child

Investing in artists living and working in Hull

Middle Child understands how difficult it can be for theatre makers to live and work in Hull, a city at the end of the line that often has to compete with the likes of Leeds, Manchester and London. That’s why we’ve created a regular programme of workshops, talks, courses and other top-class development opportunities for theatre-makers to benefit from, without needing to leave the city.

This commitment to Hull also places artists we are excited about developing at the centre of our own productions. This means that, when working with Middle Child, artists at all stages of their careers will be given opportunities to develop while actually making work, instead of undertaking hypothetical situations.

Much of the programme is diversity-led, working towards a better representation in the stories being told in Hull, the artists who are telling them and the effect that has on audiences in the city. Our new home, Bond 31 on High Street, Hull, features our theatre library, a writing room, hot desking space and rehearsal room, from which the majority of our programme takes place.

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1:1 Script Support

Are you writing a play and looking for feedback on your latest draft? Throughout the year, Middle Child literary manager, Matthew May, offers free one-to-one meetings with writers local to Hull to provide notes and support on draft scripts.

January-March 2025

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Book Club

A monthly reading group where we meet to talk about a script available in our Theatre Library, which can be borrowed to read in advance. Includes a free breakfast or lunch.

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Library Talks

A monthly get-together in our Theatre Library for artists to chew the fat on world news, the theatre industry or our home city. Topics vary, from deep and meaningful conversations about a big issue, to more practical sessions on niche matters facing theatre makers.

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Acting Gym

Athletes go to the gym to train and keep fit for an upcoming event, but what happens to actors who are in-between jobs? Where can actors continue to push themselves post-youth theatre, university or drama school?

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Writers’ Group

A free introduction to playwriting course, led by Hull writer, Tom Wells. Take part in five weekly workshops, then spend time writing your first-ever scene, which will be performed script-in-hand at Fresh Ink: Hull Playwriting Festival.

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Fresh Ink: Hull Playwriting Festival

An annual theatre festival showcasing early versions of new plays by writers with a meaningful connection to Hull, alongside a programme of workshops, talks and social events.

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