Next Gen Producers is Battersea Arts Centre’s flagship creative development programme for London-based people aged 18–29 who want to bring bold ideas to life – culminating in curating, producing and delivering Homegrown Festival.  

We take on 8 producers each year and hold weekly sessions where we host creative workshops facilitated by BAC staff and other industry professionals. These sessions run from late January to early July. Participants can expect to hone their producing skills in areas such as budgeting, contracting, marketing, artist liaison and event delivery.  

As the cohort develop these skills, they are also working towards building our annual Homegrown Festival. This is the culmination of the programme which sees an entire building takeover as part of BAC’s Spring season. 

Next Gen Producers is part of BAC’s Next Gen creative engagement programmes for ages 11-29, generously supported by supported by Arts Council England, with additional support from Craig Mawdsley, The Mackintosh Foundation, and The John S Cohen Foundation. 

Applications now open for Next Gen Producers 2027

With support from the Battersea Arts Centre team and industry professionals, hone your skills whilst developing Homegrown Festival 2027: a live arts festival which is a key part of BAC’s cultural programme. You can be new to producing or already finding your feet – all you need is curiosity, a willingness to collaborate, and an interest in bringing bold artistic ideas to life.

Together with your fellow Next Gen Producers, you will shape Homegrown Festival 2027. You will source artists to present their work, develop a budget covering all areas of delivery, from marketing to presentation, and create a series of incredible cultural experiences for audiences fitting within BAC’s wider programme of dynamic and risk-taking performances.  

In 2027, the Next Gen Producers will also receive exclusive access to LIFT (London International Festival of Theatre) events and talks, connecting your learning with international perspectives. 

We particularly welcome applications from those who identify as part of the Global Majority, as well as people who have lived experience of disability. 

What the programme offers 

• Weekly practical and creative workshops with BAC staff and industry professionals exploring programming, working with artists, budgeting, contracts, marketing, festival delivery and more.  
• The opportunity to curate, design and deliver Homegrown Festival with a network of fellow creatives and budget to bring your ideas to life. 
• A window into international creativity through curated talks and free events during LIFT (London International Festival of Theatre), connecting your learning with wider artistic conversations and international perspectives.  
• Support to take part including a £700 payment to support your participation, travel expenses reimbursed within TFL price caps (£10.50 per session), and access support to enable your participation.