The SEEDS Programme is a structured development initiative for emerging theatre practitioners. Now in its twelfth year, the SEEDS Programme has introduced a new generation of theatre-makers to the professional Irish theatre world.
Participants have the opportunity to observe and contribute to Rough Magic’s work and to gain exposure to the working methods of international artists through mentoring and placements. The SEEDS artists are encouraged to engage with the company’s approach and become part of its process.
The SEEDS artists work together from the outset, participating in separate but integrated programmes. The five participants on the sixth cycle, which runs from 2012 – 2013 are: designer Zia Holly, directors Rosemary McKenna and Ronan Phelan, producer Matt Smyth and writer Hugh Travers.
SEEDS Success
A remarkable number of graduates of the SEEDS programme have gone on to make a significant contribution to the professional theatre sector. We are delighted that our former Associate Producer Cian O’Brien is now the Artistic Director of Project Arts Centre, while previous Associate Director Tom Creed is the Director of Cork Midsummer Festival. Associate Director Matt Torney is directing our upcoming production of 'Digging for Fire'. He, along with fellow Associate Director Sophie Motley, former SEEDS Aoife Spillane-Hinks and Sarah Jane Sheils were the creative team behind 2011's 'Plaza Suite', which was revived in 2012 at Gaiety Theatre and on a national tour. And recent SEEDS graduate Marty Moore turned his placement at the National Theatre in London into a full-time position there, as Deputy Production Manager. Meanwhile ex-Seeds continue to make work with the most dynamic companies around, such as Anu, The Company, Then.This and Wilfredd. These are just some of the successes springing directly from the programme.
"SEEDS was a really transformative process at a crucial stage in my formation as a theatre maker. It gave me the confidence to really call myself a director, opened my eyes to new ways of working, and provided me with vital skills in all areas of my theatre practice."
Tom Creed, Festival Director, Cork Midsummer Festival, SEEDS 03- 04.
"For me, the SEEDS Programme opened up a whole new world in terms of how I might contribute to the Irish Theatre Industry. It allowed me the opportunity, supported by the company and my amazing mentors at home and abroad, to explore the role of the theatre producer and to establish myself as a young professional with confidence, skill and experience."
Lara Hickey, Assistant Producer, Abbey Theatre, SEEDS 08-09.
The SEEDS in Paris in December 2012:
