Presented by Nightswimming in association with the Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies, University of Toronto
Application Deadline: May 1, 2012, 5pm
Research Period: October 15-20, 2012
There are few places in Canada where in-depth theatrical research can be explored without the pressure of developing or performing a new work. Nightswimming’s unique Pure Research program provides space, money and resources to artists who are pursuing provocative theatrical questions.
Pure Research is designed to foster theatrical experiments that are not specifically linked to the creation of new work. In the spirit of inquiry, we want you to tell us what you don’t know, and how you might be able to answer your questions through a Pure Research workshop. What does that mean? If you have a theatrical question, and can pose it in terms of an experiment, then we’re interested. We supply studio space for up to three days, a fee for the lead researcher and a modest budget for artists and materials. For examples from past sessions, click here.
Pure Research Toronto sessions will be conducted in the Glen Morris Studio Theatre at the University of Toronto, in association with the Centre for Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies (formerly The Graduate Centre for Study of Drama). Nightswimming Artistic Director Brian Quirt will be present during each research process to observe, consult and offer assistance. Graduate students may also be involved as participants and observers. As part of their research, successful applicants are required to submit a full report within one month of completing their experiment; the report and additional documentation will be posted on the Nightswimming website.
We are particularly interested in
- artists who view research & development as a long-term process, not a short-cut to production
- an artistic spirit of inquiry around text, genre, style and/or production elements
We need a concise but detailed proposal outlining:
- your question and what you want to learn from it
- why you feel Pure Research is the best forum for this investigation
- how you intend to conduct the experiment; this is the most important section of the application
- practical details such as time, people and equipment required
Remember that it is NOT a developmental workshop for a new performance piece
- be honest about what you know, what you don’t know, what you want, and what you’d like to achieve
- applicants must be available for the research week in October 2012
- before making our final decisions we may contact those whose submissions intrigue us
- we also may ask short-listed applicants for further information or a more detailed proposal
What to send us:
- one page cover letter introducing yourself and defining the application: time requested, estimated budget, specific goals
- a two page (maximum) project description
- c.v. of principal artist-researcher and a list of collaborators, if known
- any relevant support material such as text or prior research
- do not send videos, press clippings, photos, programs, press kits or folders
Applications will be accepted by email only. All applicants will be informed of results by June 15, 2012.
Applicants outside Toronto are welcomed, but we are unable to provide travel or accommodation for selected projects.
Please email applications to rupal@nightswimmingtheatre.com by 5pm on Tuesday, May 1, 2012.
Nightswimming is a dramaturgical company dedicated to exploring the boundaries of dramaturgy and performance. We commission and develop new works of theatre, dance and music. For more information, or if you have questions about applying, contact us at www.nightswimmingtheatre.com or 416.504.3898. We look forward to reading your application.
