Getting funding for a theatre production in the UK is a challenge for most theatre companies and independent theatre makers. Whether you’re producing musical theatre, theatre dance, or new writing, finding financial support is often the difference between a show staying on the page or reaching a live audience.
This guide lists key arts organisations, UK registered charities and trusts that offer grants to help turn creative ideas into funded productions. Please note that funding is competitive and requirements vary, so research each one carefully.
Stage One
Stage One supports new producers working in commercial theatre. It’s a UK registered charity funded by the Theatre Investment Fund and theatre body SOLT. Its Start-Up Fund offers grants of up to £50,000 to early-career producers launching their first West End or major touring show.
This support helps get new writing and innovative theatre projects into development when commercial backing might otherwise not be available.
Visit: stageone.uk.com
Arts Council England (ACE)
Arts Council England is one of the largest arts organisations in the UK. It invests National Lottery and government funds into creative projects across theatre, dance, and the wider performing arts.
ACE offers grants between £1,000 and £100,000 to individuals, theatre companies and other organisations. These grants support development, touring, and audience engagement across all regions.
Similar funding is available via:
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Creative Scotland
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Arts Council of Wales
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Arts Council of Northern Ireland
Visit: artscouncil.org.uk
Sky Arts
Sky Arts Ignition offers funding to creatives aged 18–30. Each scholarship provides £30,000 to cover project development and cost of living for a year, along with mentoring from industry professionals.
While the scheme previously ran through IdeasTap, it has since moved to Hiive.
More info: skyacademy.com
Hiive
Hiive is a digital platform that replaced IdeasTap, offering funded competitions, collaboration opportunities and training for emerging talent in the arts.
It’s a key resource for theatre makers seeking support from industry-backed initiatives, particularly those in the early stages of their careers.
Visit: app.hiive.co.uk
Wellcome Trust
While best known for science and health research, the Wellcome Trust also funds performance work that explores health, science or the human condition. Theatre productions that align with their aims may be eligible.
The trust offers over £700 million in funding each year, and previous awards have supported crossover projects between performance and scientific research.
Example: Bryony Kimmings’ show on alcoholism combined live theatre with public health research.
Visit: wellcome.org
Final Notes
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a good starting point. These organisations support everything from experimental theatre dance to commercial musicals and grassroots productions. If you’re applying, tailor your proposal to fit the funder’s goals and priorities.
Please note: Eligibility criteria, deadlines and funding levels can change. Always check the latest details on each organisation’s website. Getting funding isn’t easy but, as with anything good in life, it’s worth it in the end. Have any stories of your own funding experiences? Let us know on Twitter or Facebook.