Delivered in partnership by The Maltings (Berwick) Trust, Alnwick Playhouse and Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, Hexham, the fund aims to strengthen dance in Northumberland by supporting artists and companies to develop their work and connect with communities.
We’re particularly interested in projects that take place in rural areas, respond to local contexts and create meaningful opportunities for people to engage with dance.
Who can apply
The fund is open to:
- Individual dance artists, companies and practitioners
- Those based in the North of Tyne region or with established creative links to Northumberland
Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience of working in rural contexts, an understanding of dance provision across the county, and a clear plan for how their project will engage participants or audiences.
What we can support
We welcome a range of proposals, including:
- Residencies to develop new dance work
- Workshops or classes that build participation
- Skills development activity
- Work-in-progress projects
All projects should include an element of community involvement and contribute to the wider development of dance in Northumberland.
Funding
- Grants of up to £3,000 are available
- Funding can contribute to artist fees, travel within Northumberland, participant transport, and materials
Key dates
- Application deadline: Monday 18 May 2026, 5pm
- Delivery period: July 2026 – March 2027
- Interviews: Thursday 4 June 2026 (shortlisted applicants only)
How to apply
To apply, please read the Application Pack and submit:
- A proposal (maximum 2 sides of A4) outlining your project
- Details of participants, location, delivery and timeline
- A budget breakdown
Applications should be sent by email with the subject line NDDF Open Call Application.
Please send your application to these 3 email addresses:
lucy.vaughan@maltingsberwick.co.uk
Lucy Vaughan, Head of Creative Engagement, Maltings, Berwick upon Tweed.
damian.cruden@alnwickplayhouse.co.uk
Damian Cruden, Artistic Director, Alnwick Playhouse
Katy Taylor, Artistic Director, Queen’s Hall, Hexham
If you have any questions or would like to arrange an informal conversation about the Open Call fund, please email Lucy Vaughan at lucy.vaughan@maltingsberwick.co.uk.
