2024 Bursary

Sorry, this year’s application round is now closed.

If you have submitted an application you will hear back from us in March 2025.

Follow us on Instagram for news of the next round.

Established in 2016 by director Michael Grandage, the MGCfutures Bursary Programme aims to support the many varied careers within theatre. Over the past seven years it has helped more than 140 recipients across the industry. (Take a look at our past recipients here.)

What makes the annual bursary programme unique is the sheer range and scope of the recipients, and the fact that it is open to applicants of any age throughout the UK. Those applying are predominantly in the 18 to 30 age group, but older applicants seeking a step-change in their career have also been supported.

The Bursaries help people who often fall outside traditional funding channels, providing vital bridging support for theatre makers at a pivotal point in their professional development.

Each year, MGCfutures announces when applications for a Bursary can be made – this is usually for a period of four weeks. Applicants must state in no more than 500 words what they’d like funding for. It’s important that they demonstrate how the idea or project will have a significant impact on their professional development and subsequent career. A budget must be included indicating clearly how much the idea/project will cost. The maximum amount that can be applied for is £5,000.

Subscribe to our mailing list and follow us on social media to be the first to know each year when the programme is open for applications.

Before starting your application, please ensure you meet the following criteria:

  • You are not a student or college leaver
  • You have a minimum of 2 years’ experience working professionally within the theatre industry
  • You are not applying for production costs
  • Your application is not based upon a classic text
  • You have not previously received a bursary from us

We recognise the value of diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from people who are currently underrepresented within the theatre industry, including those who identify as belonging to the global majority. We also welcome applications from those who identify as disabled or neurodiverse.

Please note: We only support people working within the theatre – TV and film-related projects will not be considered. Similarly, the bursaries are not eligible to support commercial investments in productions.

I’m over 40-years-old, can I still apply?
Yes, provided you meet the stated criteria we accept applications from all ages.

I received a bursary in 2017, can I apply for another?
Unfortunately not. The bursaries are ‘one-off’ awards and can’t be repeated, even for a new project.

I’m a Theatre Maker who also choreographs, can I make two applications?
We strongly advise against multiple applications as this weakens your case for support.

My application was unsuccessful last time, can I apply again?
Yes, provided you’ve not received financial support from us before.

The criteria state that production costs are not supported. I’m a writer who’s applying to develop a new script, can I include the costs of a professional play-reading in my application?
Yes, but we are primarily interested in your personal development as an artist and the main focus of your bursary should be your writing.

I’ve read the funding criteria but I’m still not sure whether I’m eligible to apply
If in doubt, you can e-mail MGCfutures Executive Director, Andrew Broadley, to check whether you meet the criteria: andrew@mgcfutures.com

I have more questions, who can I contact?
If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact MGCfutures Executive Director, Andrew Broadley: andrew@mgcfutures.com.

2023 Bursary

We are delighted to announce the 15 theatre makers receiving bursaries this year
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2022 Bursary

Meet the 19 recipients of our sixth annual MGCfutures Bursary
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2021 Bursary

Meet the 33 recipients of our fifth annual MGCfutures Bursary
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2019 Bursary

Meet the 23 recipients of our fourth annual MGCfutures Bursary
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2018 Bursary

Meet the 16 recipients of our third annual MGCfutures Bursary
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2017 Bursary

Meet the 18 recipients of our second annual MGCfutures Bursary
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2016 Bursary

Meet the 17 recipients of our first annual MGCfutures Bursary
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Collaborations

Partnering with organisations to create unique bursary opportunities

“Now more than ever it’s essential to invest in the theatre makers of the future – not just to survive, but to thrive and create new and vital work.”

Michael Grandage

MGCfutures Bursaries exist to support theatre makers in creating work and developing their careers within the industry. To date, MGCfutures has supported over 120 people in taking next steps that will have a vital and sustaining effect on their careers.

With theatre and the performing arts in the UK in the midst of unprecedented changes, the Bursaries are needed now more than ever before. We rely upon the generous support of our friends and donors, without whom we would be unable to run our bursary programme. Please help the future of theatre by donating to MGCfutures today.

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