Joy Artist Development Programme

We are excited to launch the Joy Artist Development Programme, a new development opportunity for disabled artists as part of Joy Festival 2026.

The Joy Artist Development Programme will support four emerging disabled artists in developing their professional artistic career and practice. The programme will offer 4 artists a programme of 1:1 mentoring, networking, professional seminars with leading disability arts organisations, plus rehearsal time culminating in a performance slot during the Joy Festival Studio performance week in October.

Please read the full information on the programme before applying. All the information can be found on our website including the information pack (full PDF, word & BSL versions):

Key information

Applications open:Friday 17th July, 10am

Applications close:Monday 17th August, 10am

Informal chats/interviews:w/c 17th August, by arrangement*

Programme start date: 4th September 2026

*Please note we will offer to have short, informal conversations with candidates whose applications we would like to know more about. You may be accepted onto the programme without a chat with the team, or we may invite you to talk to us about your idea if we feel we need further clarification.

#J-18808-Ljbffr