2026 Black Theatre School Application Requirements
The Black Theatre School invites applications for its nine-month immersive professional theatre training residency. Applications must be submitted electronically to contact@blacktheatreschool.com by 11:59 PM ET on February 28, 2026. We will host an Online Info Session on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 6-7pm.
The Black Theatre School is designed for multi-hyphenate Black theatre practitioners working across—and/or seeking to deepen practice across—writing, devising, dramaturgy, directing, design, producing, stage weaving, and performance. Grounded in biomyth monodrama, pantodub theatre, and the Anitafrika Method, the program centres embodied practice, decolonial pedagogy, and intergenerational kinship.
Application Package
Applicants must submit one complete application package containing the following materials:
Professional Résumé
A current résumé outlining your artistic training, creative practice, performance history, and/or professional experience. There is no required format; clarity and relevance are prioritised over length.Statement of Purpose
Limit: 3 pages or 1,000 words
Please address:
Your artistic practice and current questions
Why the Black Theatre School is the right space for you at this stage
Your interest in biomyth monodrama, pantodub theatre, and/or decolonial performance practice
How you envision contributing to and learning within an intergenerational, ensemble-based training environment
Letters of Recommendation (3)
Three professional letters of recommendation are required
At least one letter should be from a collaborator (e.g., director, dramaturge, producer) who has worked directly with you
The remaining letters may come from mentors, teachers, or theatre professionals familiar with your artistic practice, leadership, and growth
Work Sample(s)
Examples may include writing excerpts, performance documentation, directing or design materials, devised work, or interdisciplinary projects
Applicants may submit up to 10 minutes of video/audio and/or 15 pages of written material (excerpts encouraged)
Short Biography
A brief bio (150–250 words) situating you within your artistic, cultural, and community contexts.Current Photograph
One clear headshot or portrait photo for identification purposes only (no aesthetic requirements).Please organise materials into one continuous PDF file.
Selection Process
The Black Theatre School does not operate through traditional auditions. Selection is based on the full application package and an Ensemble Interview Process with attention to:
Artistic curiosity and readiness for immersive training
Commitment to ensemble practice and community accountability
Openness to embodied, decolonial, and interdisciplinary methodologies
Alignment with the School’s values of Ubuntu, Sankofa, and Iwa Pele
In-person interviews will occur from March 1-15, 2026. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to the Ensemble Interview process, scheduled for Saturday March 7, 2026, 10am-5pm. Attendance to the Ensemble Interview process is required for all practitioners who are invited to attend. Practitioners will be notified of acceptance into the residency on or before March 20, 2026. The residency officially begins on March 30, 2026.
Before You Apply
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to:
Visit blacktheatreschool.com for full program details
Attend the Online Info Session on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 6-7pm
Review the FAQ section on the website before submitting questions
If you have any questions after reviewing the website and FAQ, please contact us at contact@blacktheatreschool.com.
Deadline: February 28, 2026 | 11:59 PM ET
Submission Email: contact@blacktheatreschool.com
The Black Theatre School welcomes applications from Black artists across the diaspora and is committed to cultivating a learning environment grounded in care, rigour, and liberatory worldbuilding.
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