Join the Ensemble Theatre Connections (ETC) Regional Mentorship Program
Western Riverina | Ages 16–24
Are you passionate about theatre, performance or storytelling?
Ensemble Theatre is inviting enrolments from young people aged 16– 24 from the Western Riverina region to join the ETC Regional Mentorship Program for the remainder of 2026.
This is a unique opportunity to connect with professional theatre-makers, meet like-minded young artists from across regional NSW, gain behind-the-scenes access to Sydney's theatre industry, and participate in an exclusive three-day theatre intensive in Sydney.
About the Program
The Ensemble Theatre Collective (ETC) Regional Mentorship was established in 2025 in partnership with Orana Arts to support young regional theatre-makers in building industry knowledge, creative confidence and professional networks.
The inaugural program brought together participants from Dubbo, Goulburn, Griffith, Wagga Wagga and Cessnock. Through online conversations with leading theatre artists, workshops, rehearsal observations and live performances, participants gained valuable insight into careers in the performing arts while forming lasting creative connections with one another.
Participant feedback described the experience as inspiring, transformative and confidence- building, with many requesting the opportunity to continue into a second year.
Due to two participants withdrawing because of Year 12 commitments, a small number of places have become available for young people from the Western Riverina region to join the program for the remainder of 2026.
What You'll Experience:
Successful applicants will participate in:
Online Creative Conversations:
- 18 August
- 1 September
Meet some of Australia's leading theatre artists through a series of interactive online sessions, including:
• Ensemble Artistic Director Mark Kilmurry and award-winning playwright David Williamson
These sessions provide the opportunity to ask questions, hear first-hand career advice and gain insight into Australia's professional theatre industry.
Sydney Theatre Intensive
20–22 September 2026
Participants will travel to Sydney for an immersive three-day experience including:
• Behind-the-scenes access at Ensemble Theatre
• Rehearsal observation
• Practical theatre workshops
• Industry networking opportunities
• Q&A sessions with professional artists
• Tickets to productions at Ensemble Theatre, Belvoir and Sydney Theatre Company
• Accommodation (two nights), meals during the program and theatre tickets provided by Ensemble Theatre.
Cost
Participants are responsible for organising and paying for their own travel to and from Sydney.
All other program costs, including accommodation, theatre tickets, workshops and scheduled meals, are covered by Ensemble Theatre.
Who Should Enrole?
We're looking for young people aged 16–24 from the Western Riverina region who are passionate about theatre or the performing arts.