We are pleased to announce that Spotlight’s bursary scheme continues in January 2024. We recognise that one of the biggest barriers to entry into our industry is financial and we want to provide more options to help performers on their journey. We have introduced a flexible monthly Direct Debit subscription, which is available to both new joiners and existing performers.
We are now additionally introducing applications for our bursaries. There will be 400 annual bursaries covering one free year of membership available.
The scheme has been set up to:
- help those performers struggling most with financial barriers to entry into the industry
- help support current performers on Spotlight who find themselves in financial hardship
We especially welcome bursary applications from performers who identify with communities which are underrepresented in our industry.
How it works
Bursaries will be divided between new and existing subscribers.
There will be four rounds of applications throughout the year. Every three months, applications will open and close for this scheme.
This round of applications is now closed.
Applicants will be advised of the outcome by the end of March, and applications will open again for the next round in April.
How to apply
You can apply for a bursary if you meet one of the criteria examples below:
- You are in receipt of benefits
- You are a refugee / displaced
- You are a full or part-time carer
- You come from a low income background
- You are a single parent
- Parents/Guardians/Young Performers: You are in receipt of free school meals
- Parents/Guardians/Young Performers: You are in Care / a care leaver
What will be requested from you
- A document to show receipt of government benefits or financial situation
- If unable/unfeasible to provide supporting documentation to evidence your circumstances you can supply a supporting reference from a professional, not related to you, who can verify your circumstances. This person could be, for example, a teacher, an employer, a health worker, a registered Spotlight agent, etc.
- Parents/Young Performers: A note from your school confirming that you receive free school meals
If you are applying for the bursary and are not yet a member, please note you will subsequently need to meet the criteria of the relevant membership and submit an application online. We have recently expanded our criteria and you can find out more here.
Ready to start your application?
Applications are currently closed. The next round will reopen in April 2024. You will be able to apply by clicking here.
Please note:
A bursary can only be awarded to a particular applicant once. If you have already been successful in receiving a bursary, you will no longer be eligible.
Membership discounts are also available to deaf, disabled and neurodivergent performers. Please submit a request on our Help Centre for more information.
Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash
