We need 20 directors to be part of Off Cut 2026.
As always, we’re looking for personable, enthusiastic people who are inspired by new writing and will, in turn, be an inspiration to the writers and their casts.
If you think you might fit the bill, get in touch.
Please take the time to read the information below and make sure you’re ok with everything before applying.
Directors will be asked to be the point of contact between their assigned writer and cast, and 53Two when arranging rehearsals.
The writers have been asked to use the rehearsals as a chance to see their work develop and to be open to tweaks and rewrites. However, we would also ask directors to remain mindful of their assigned writer’s intentions.
Each play will be performed twice between 24th June and 4th July, with the winning plays from each group performing again twice on Sunday 5th July. The nature and sheer size of the festival means that you will not be able to request specific dates, so you will need to be free from 24th June and 5th July even though your may only be performed in one of those weeks. You will also be needed for an hour or so for the tech rehearsals on one of the following dates: 22nd, 23rd, 29th or 30th June.
Once the plays, directors and actors have been selected, we will be revealing who is directing which plays and with which actors at an Off Cut get together at 53Two on 23rd May. It would be great if you could make that, but it’s not obligatory.
In order to find our directors, we like to meet lots of people at the same time, for an informal group chat and a chance to read through some of the plays in contention. We may also invite you to come into auditions to work on texts with actors.
No writer can direct or perform in their own play. No director can direct or act in a play they have written. No actor can direct or have written the play they are in.
Off Cut 2026 is a fundraiser for 53two, which means nobody will be getting paid for the event. We are asking you to volunteer.
If you’re good with all of this, then fill out the form and we’ll be in touch soon.