After a great session in March, Carmen Collective's 'Theatre: Making It and Doing It' workshop is back, bigger and better than ever! Are you a theatre artist of any discipline who wants to: turn your creative idea into a viable production? obtain funding from Arts Council England? build a sustainable career in the theatre industry? Then this is the workshop for you! This afternoon-long workshop is a crash-course on contemporary theatre-making, what it is and how to do it. Theatre-maker Sam Rees will equip you with the skills and knowledge to get your production on, make a success of it, and, most importantly, pay yourself and others for your work. Sam will demystify the process behind getting funding and putting on a show; provide you with a wealth of knowledge and give you the confidence to make the theatre you want to make; inspire you to take the next crucial step in your professional journey; Provide you with a digital info-pack full of resources to support you in the long-term. Participant feedback so far: 'Fascinating and inspiring' 'A perfect crash course in getting started and surviving in the industry' 'I would recommend this talk to anyone' Sam Rees is a theatre-maker, writer and performer. He is co-Artistic Director of Carmen Collective, a theatre company which has raised nearly a quarter of a million pounds in funding since its inception in 2021. He has created work across the UK, including Camden People's Theatre, Oxford Playhouse, Norwich Theatre Royal and the Edinburgh Fringe. Recent projects include Lessons on Revolution (, A Youngish Perspective) which played to sold-out audiences at Soho Theatre. If you have any questions about the workshop ahead of time, don't hesitate to email [email protected]. You can find Sam on social media @SamRees6 (Twitter) and @samrees9259 (Instagram), and producers Carmen Collective @Carmencollecti (Twitter) and @carmen_collective_theatre (Instagram)

Since you’re here…

… we have a small favour to ask. We don't want your money to support a hack's bar bill at Abattoir, but if you have a pound or two spare, we really encourage you to support a good cause. If this review has either helped you discover a gem or avoid a turkey, consider doing some good that will really make a difference.

You can donate to the charity of your choice, but if you're looking for inspiration, there are three charities we really like.

Show me the charities

Mama Biashara
Kate Copstick’s charity, Mama Biashara, works with the poorest and most marginalised people in Kenya. They give grants to set up small, sustainable businesses that bring financial independence and security. That five quid you spend on a large glass of House White? They can save someone’s life with that. And the money for a pair of Air Jordans? Will take four women and their fifteen children away from a man who is raping them and into a new life with a moneymaking business for Mum and happiness for the kids.
Donate to Mama Biashara now

Theatre MAD
The Make A Difference Trust fights HIV & AIDS one stage at a time. Their UK and International grant-making strategy is based on five criteria that raise awareness, educate, and provide care and support for the most vulnerable in society. A host of fundraising events, including Bucket Collections, Late Night Cabarets, West End Eurovision, West End Bares and A West End Christmas continue to raise funds for projects both in the UK and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Donate to Theatre MAD now

Acting For Others
Acting for Others provides financial and emotional support to all theatre workers in times of need through the 14 member charities. During the COVID-19 crisis Acting for Others have raised over £1.7m to support theatre workers affected by the pandemic.
Donate to Acting For Others now