How do I apply? 

Complete the application form by 5pm on Mon 3 Aug 2026. And we’ll let everyone know the outcome by Thu 6 Aug 2026.

If you’d prefer a dyslexia-friendly version, want to apply by video, or need the application in another format, email engage@capitaltheatres.com and we’ll be happy to help. 

Who can apply? 

So we can really get to know and support everyone, there are 14 places available. To apply, you need to: 

• Be aged 16–19 yrs
• Be able to attend all workshops and shows on the dates outlined above
• Be willing to take part in a small number of additional activities and self-guided learning in order to be able to meet the requirements of the Arts Award.  Choices of dates will be given.
• Have an interest in theatre or the performing arts
• Be thinking about a future in the creative industries

What are you looking for in an application? 

We want to get to know you.  Tell us why you’d like to take part, what interests you about theatre and how you think the course could help you. 

You don’t need lots of experience. Curiosity, enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved are what matter most, but we will want to get a genuine sense of how taking part in this course might help you in the future. 

We’re looking for people with all kinds of interests, experiences and creative backgrounds. 

We’re especially keen to hear from young people who haven’t always had access to creative opportunities or who don’t often see themselves represented in the theatre industry. 

What happens after I apply? 

We’ll let everyone know the outcome by Thu 6 Aug 2026. If you’re offered a place, we’ll send you a confirmation email, an e-ticket and everything you need to know before the programme starts. If we can’t offer you a place this time, you’ll have the option to join our waiting list. 

Help with travel costs

If you need financial support getting to/from the venues, let us know when applying for the course or by emailing us on engage@capitaltheatres.com.

How Theatre Works is about shining a light on the whole industry. We try to balance workshops across three main themes of Performance, Production and Business, so that there is something for every area of interest.  This year, for example, we will have sessions in: 

• Performance: Spoken Word & Directing 
• Production: Set Design & Technical Theatre 
• Business: Producing & Arts Marketing 

As well as a backstage tour and offers to attend additional workshops in other areas of theatre making.

Each workshop is led by an inspiring professional artist or theatre practitioner with experience in that area of the industry.  Every session is also supported by a member of the Capital Theatres team, and all workshop leaders are PVG checked.

We recognise that some career areas might be slightly outside of your comfort zone, but we recommend giving every session your best shot so that you can learn about how different departments work together to bring shows to life. 

Arts Award takes young people on a creative journey, exploring the arts world, discovering their potential as artists, developing leadership skills – and gaining a recognised qualification along the way – find out more about Arts Award.

Everyone who completes How Theatre Works can achieve a Bronze Arts Award. This includes 40 hours of workshops, shows and activities, plus around 20 hours of independent work, which we’ll support you to complete throughout the programme. 

If you’d like to go further, you can progress to Silver Arts Award. Silver includes our unique four-day co-creation residency (5 – 8 Apr 2027). You’ll gain real work experience by working alongside professional artists to create a new piece of theatre. You’ll also complete around 15 hours of additional independent learning, which we’ll support you with along the way.

For the Bronze Arts Award you’ll take part in: 

• Eight workshops
• Four live shows
• A backstage tour
• The choice of two creative workshops as part of our Find Your Light days
• Audition & interview training
• A digital portfolio of your learning
• You’ll also complete around 20 hours of independent learning with support from the team. 

For the Silver Arts Award (optional) you’ll choose a specialist area such as directing, producing, design, technical theatre, marketing or performance. You’ll also spend four days working with professional artist mentors and other young creatives to develop and share a brand-new piece of theatre over a 4 day co-creation residency. The Silver Arts Award offers a unique opportunity to: 

• Gain real work experience
• Develop your creative practice
• Build confidence
• Meet theatre professionals
• Grow your portfolio and network 

For either level of Arts Award, you’ll need to complete a small amount of work on your own. This will largely be through creating your digital portfolios (logging your learning and experiences as you go), but may also include a research project, interview or creative task. 

We’ll provide more information on this once places are confirmed, and full support will be given throughout the course. 

We know things come up.  If you can’t make a workshop, let the course leader know as soon as you can. We’ll always try to help you catch up where possible. 

Because the programme is linked to the Arts Award, attendance is important. If you miss more than one session, we’ll have a chat with you about the best way forward and whether you’ll still be able to complete the qualification. 

Most workshops run from 5–7pm. On some evenings, you’ll stay afterwards to watch a show at that venue and we’ll give you your ticket on the day.

There’s a 30-minute break between the workshop and the performance. We’ll provide free pizza and soft drinks, but you’re welcome to bring your own food or head out for something nearby.

As everyone on the programme is aged 16 or over, you’ll attend performances independently. If you’d prefer a parent, carer or another responsible adult to come with you, just let us know when you start the course and we’ll be happy to provide an additional ticket free of charge.

That’s completely normal. Most people take part in this course without knowing anyone else. Our artists work hard to create a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable getting involved.

There’ll be a mix of group activities and independent work, so you’ll have plenty of chances to get to know people at your own pace. If there’s anything we can do to help you feel more comfortable before or during the programme, just let us know.