Closing date: 3 June 2010
Decisions advised: August 2010
Residency: 14 February – 16 May 2011

The Australia Council provides a significant annual opportunity for an artist by offering a three-month studio residency at the Cite` des Arts, Paris. Residencies at the studio are rotated amongst each of the Council's Boards. The Theatre Board is offering the Cite` Paris Residency from 14 February to 16 May 2011.

Recent industry debate has highlighted a leadership crisis for women creatives in influential roles, particularly within mainstream theatre practice. The 2011 theatre residency will provide support for a woman theatre director to pursue a program of professional development in Paris.

This program could include activities such as: secondments or residencies, mentorship programs, training opportunities, community consultation or research periods while in Paris. Applicants need to articulate the professional benefits that they would gain from time spent in France, and are expected to present a discrete program of activity/ies for the three-month period.

The Cite` Internationale des Arts complex consists of 200 studios and was established by Madame Simone Brunau and her late husband, Monsieur Felix Brunau after 10 years of planning and lobbying for support. At any one time there are a number of culturally diverse artists from up to 50 countries residing in the complex. The complex includes facilities for musicians, performers and visual artists.

The studio itself comprises one large room off an entry with a partitioned sleeping area, and a small kitchen and bathroom. The space is suitable for a single artist or couple. In addition to the accommodation provided, a grant of $10,000 will cover airfares, living allowance, and other sundries.

Only individuals may apply for the Cite` Paris Residency - Women theatre directors.  You must also meet the general eligibility requirements.

Selection criteria

Applications will be selected that best meet the following selection criteria:

• An artistic rationale for the activity as a vital contribution to the development of high quality contemporary theatre 
• Artistic or professional skills appropriate to the activity
• Contribution to the diversity of Australian theatre
• Good planning and effective use of resources
• Potential for development of the individual as a theatre director.
  

You must submit evidence of your eligibility, as well as the required support material listed below as part of the application.

Required support material:

• Applicants must submit letters of support from host companies as evidence of secondments or residencies if appropriate
• Applicants must also submit 2 support letters from artists and companies that you have worked with as a theatre director as required support material.

All this required support material must be submitted with your application at the closing date.