BATS Theatre residency available for a Pasifika Producer

Supported by our Pacific Arts Strategy, BATS Theatre are now welcoming applications from experienced Pasifika producers to take part in a paid, 3-month residency.

This residency is open to applicants from around Aotearoa and is designed to support a Pasifika producer who can develop national and international-scale works, and to expand their network.

This is a pilot initiative with a total investment of $30,000, which includes a resident fee of $1500 per week ($21,000 total, before tax) and a contribution towards flights and accommodation, if needed.

The successful applicant will become a part of the BATS whānau, working from their office in Pōneke, and will include engagement with incoming artists. They will be encouraged to use this time to develop new contracts if they have capacity, and to further build their connections in the industry. This could also include travel throughout Aotearoa.

The finer details of the residency will be tailored to what the producer wishes to achieve.

Ali Foa’i, our Principal Adviser, Pacific Arts, is delighted to announce this collaboration with BATS Theatre.

“BATS is a leader in the space of developing Pacific theatre practitioners in Aotearoa, and we’re proud to have co-designed this residency in partnership with Jonty and the BATS team,” he says.

“I’m excited to see the way this opportunity will support a Pasifika producer to extend their vā by exploring new collaborations, presentation opportunities and artistic exchanges.”

This initiative aligns with the Tagata and Vā pou of our current Pacific Arts Strategy, in that it aims to resource Pasifika practitioners to develop and deliver outstanding work, and to establish new partnerships within the Pacific arts community.

Jonty Hendry, Chief Executive of BATS Theatre, says he’s delighted to be partnering with Creative New Zealand on another opportunity developed through our Pacific Arts Strategy.

“We are honoured to play our part in supporting the incredible strength of artistry emerging from Moana Oceania,” Jonty says.

“For over thirty years, BATS has been a place of growth and learning. At this point in our journey, as we work to build greater equity and dismantle power imbalances, it's wonderful to be able to host a producer in residence and help amplify the positive impact they will make.”

The residency will run from late May through to September 2023. Applications close Friday 28th April.

How do I apply?

Please email a copy of your CV plus a plan of what you want to achieve through the duration of the residency, to alesha@bats.co.nz. You can also send your plan as a video.