Birmingham Hippodrome launches artist development programme

Birmingham Hippodrome has launched its artist development programme, Hippodrome Origins, which will support eight theatre writers and makers from the West Midlands over an 18-month period. The initiative, led by Anna Himali Howard, aims to nurture the creativity of emerging artists, providing them with opportunities to develop new theatrical works. Participants include a diverse group of creatives, such as spoken word artist Amerah Saleh and writer Elizabeth O’Connor, who will benefit from monthly group sessions and shared peer support. Additionally, a documentary titled 'The Hooligan Project' about a Ukrainian theatre group's workshop will premiere in Crouch End, coinciding with the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This documentary highlights themes of belonging and vulnerability through the arts, showcasing the resilience of displaced artists. Lastly, the Conn Artists Theatre Company is staging a production of Thomas Hardy’s 'Far From the Madding Crowd' at the Lichfield Garrick, continuing the tradition of bringing classic literature to the stage.