Why LGBTQ+ and Greater Manchester?

*We ask people to declare this as our spaces are promoted as LGBTQ+ inclusive. We acknowledge the acronym LGBTQ+ is not perfect (you may be new on your gender or sexual identity journey, or prefer different terms), but we ask all participants to acknowledge that Dibby operates LGBTQ+ inclusive spaces by checking this box.

 

**Our funding dictates the region in which we deliver work. However, we acknowledge not everyone has address security - if your current postcode is outside of GM, we ask that you only sign up if you consider GM to be your primary base of work, or you intend to return to the region soon. 

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Do I need a show or project in place to apply for mentorship?

If you have a specific project or idea you want to discuss that’s great, but it’s not a necessity. You may wish to discuss wider talent development needs such as self-promotion, networking or training. If you wish to spend some time working on your CV, portfolio or career plan, then Glow Up Portfolios (see below) might be a better fit.

 

I’ve been working in the industry for a while now, but still feel like I need help. Can I apply or is this for emerging artists only?

We’ll assess on need rather than what stage of career a person is at. You might have been directing theatre for a while and are now planning to set up your own producing company with your peers, or you might be a local stage manager interested in a career shift to touring theatre. Your mentor will help you identify your skills gaps, action plan your next steps and signpost you in the right direction.

 

I’m an artist but not in theatre. Am I eligible?

We’re a theatre company and as such support creatives, producers and backstage crew working in (or wanting to work in) in the live arts (e.g., theatre, dance, comedy, live art, storytelling or music). If you’re a visual artist (or any other type of artist) looking to expand your portfolio into the live arts, then you are a perfect candidate for Glow Up. Unfortunately, we can’t offer art-form specific mentorship outside of theatre/performing/live arts.

 

I have an access need. Will you be able to support me?

We are committed to supporting all LGBTQ+ people into sustainable careers in the arts. Access needs are wide and varied: you may have a disability or be neurodivergent, you might struggle to travel due to work commitments, or be unable to cover the cost of childcare. If you have a specific support need, get in touch. We’re a small (but friendly) bunch and we’ll always do our absolute best to offer the assistance you need to ensure you are able to take part.

 

Is there an age restriction?

You must over 18 to apply. There is no upper age limit.

 

I live outside of Greater Manchester, can I apply?

Unfortunately, our funding dictates that this opportunity is for LGBTQ+ people or majority LGBTQ-led organisations in Greater Manchester only. However, we acknowledge not everyone has address security. If your current postcode is outside of GM, we ask that you only sign up if you consider GM to be your primary base of work, or you intend to return to the region soon. 

 

Can I become a mentor?

If you think you have something to offer another creative, producer or backstage crew member, let us know and we’ll add you to our list of potential mentors to match Glow Up applicants to. Drop us an email with your CV/website/portfolio at hello@dibbytheatre.org