Creator-Producers, Stage It Program
Downstage
Deadline to submit: June 30, 2025
Stage It is Downstage’s initiative for emerging creator-producers — artists eager to grow their creative process by developing, producing and presenting their own work. This program is designed to support creator-producers in making work that is bold, socially conscious and artist-driven.
Now entering its third iteration, Stage It will support two creator-producer duos who will each develop a new project culminating in a live showcase at the Stage It Festival at Motel Theatre, Arts Commons, May 21 – 24, 2026.
Participants will receive mentorship, resources and an honorarium to support the development of their project and themselves as creators.
To apply and for more information fill out the application form, visit docs.google.com/forms.
Your Commitment
Participants are required to:
- Develop and independently rehearse the producing project you applied with.
- Secure all collaborators, rehearsal space, and design elements (set, props, costumes) and rights (if needed) for your production.
Attend:
- Monthly check-in and developmental sessions with the Downstage team of lead artist-administrators.
- Two guest artist sessions.
- The full Stage It Festival (May 21 – 24, 2026).
- A technical rehearsal in Motel Theatre (date TBD).
What You’ll Receive
- $2,000 honorarium per duo
- A small portion of the production expenses supported by Downstage
- Ongoing mentorship from Downstage’s Artistic Producer, Artistic Director, and Producer
- Technical support and access to Motel Theatre, Arts Commons
- Two guest artist sessions tailored to your project and goals
- Complimentary tickets to all Downstage productions during the 2025–2026 season
- Last but not least: Inclusion in the 25/26 Downstage Stage It Festival! May 21 – 24, 2026
Downstage will provide the performance venue, festival technician, and festival marketing costs. Duos are responsible for project-specific expenses (with support from Downstage through a small honorarium and to explore funding options such as grants or sponsorships).
For more info visit Downstage.
