We are recruiting people aged 16-25 for our fourth cohort of Birmingham Hippodrome’s Young Advocates.
Young Advocates is a group of young people that, whilst on their own journey of learning and development, will shape and influence the work of the Hippodrome.
For the new cohort we are looking for young people interested in building a career within the arts industry. The programme will be focussed on work development, alongside progressing skills and confidence to ensure the young people see a career in the arts and creative industries as a viable option. We’re looking for applicants that have an interest in different areas of theatre – this could be anything ranging from Technical and Backstage, Marketing and Communications to New Work or New Musicals.
Alongside working closely with the Hippodrome to programme and produce events for young people, the group will receive training, mentoring and access to a range of different opportunities within the arts industry. Our team are dedicated to supporting the goals of each individual Young Advocate. In the past we have provided paid opportunities for festival stage management, event photography, digital content creating and community hosting.
Previous groups have worked on a variety of successful projects such as helping to launch the Young Community Drop In sessions which are now a regular part of the Hippodrome’s programme and even curated their own stage of artists at Birmingham Weekender.
Speaking about the experience Young Advocate, Harvey, said: “The opportunities I have been offered through Birmingham Hippodrome have helped me develop practical, professional skills as well as personal traits. Across the years I have learnt a lot about the industry, the working world and myself.”
To apply, please fill in the form here. Deadline is Tue 6 Jan and the application is a chance to showcase your passion for the arts and why you are interested in the programme. We recognise that people have different barriers to engaging with our programmes and we are always willing to do what we can to support young people to take part, from travel costs to access support. Please drop us a message if you wanted to ask about any support that may be helpful to you before applying.
Key Dates:
– Open Online Information Session – Wednesday 10 Dec 6pm – 7pm
We will explain more about the programme with current Young Advocates joining to share their experience. This is an opportunity to ask any questions you might have for the team. Sign up to the session via the form here.
– Access Evening at the Hippodrome – Wednesday 17 Dec from 5.30pm/6pm
This is a chance to chat to the team in person, get to know the Hippodrome with a tour around the building, hear more about the programme and ask any questions. Snacks will be provided!
If you are unsure on how to get to the building, our team will be waiting from 5.30pm by Big Bull in Grand Central. From there, we will walk over as a group and show you the route before the session starts at 6pm at the Hippodrome. You are welcome to meet us there or by the Big Bull, whichever you’d prefer! Sign up to the session via the form here.
– Applications Close – Tuesday 6 Jan 10am
– Interviews (in person) – Wednesday 14 & Saturday 17 Jan
Successful applicants will be invited to a group interview. These are expected to last around 1 hour 15 minutes and are an informal chance for us to get to know you and take part in some fun activities!
– Feedback & Cohort Selected by Friday 23 Jan
The programme is free and sessions will run fortnightly on a Wednesday evening – we look forward to reading your applications!