The Shape of Things

Black Swan State Theatre Company presents The HotBed Ensemble

14 May - 30 May 2010
PICA Performance Space

The Hotbed Ensemble Black Swan's youth arm was established in 2001. Its objective - to encourage participation by young people in theatre - has been highly successful, with a growing program and increasing numbers of participants and audiences. Productions such as Striptease, Mountain Language and Crave in 2004, The Visit and Heart's Desire in 2005, Falling Petals and Woyzeck in 2006 have been remarkable for their strong direction, innovative design and committed performances.

In 2006 Black Swan introduced two new programs as part its youth arm: The HotBed Ensemble, an emerging artist development program, and Theatre Thrills and Skills - skills development classes for performers and theatre artists. For more information about theatre Thrills and Skills courses, visit Thrills and Skills.

The HotBed Ensemble is Black Swan State Theatre Company's professional development program for emerging Western Australian artists. It was initiated to provide a bridge to mainstage work for talented theatre artists making their mark in the independent theatre scene or recently graduated from training.

The program includes exclusive training and mentoring opportunities, close contact with Black Swan artists, and creative opportunities in HotBed productions. There is also the opportunity to be involved in play readings, secondments to Black Swan State Theatre Company mainhouse productions and exclusive master classes with national and international visiting artists. As artists of the future, The HotBed group also keeps Black Swan in touch with new ideas and trends in the performing arts.

After the success of The Dark Room and pool (no water) in 2009, 2010 will see the HotBed produce Neil Labute's startling contemporary classic The Shape of Things and David Greig's surreal work Yellow Moon, The Ballad of Leila and Lee.

In 2010 The HotBed Ensemble will consist of four talented performers and a strong creative team including a Lighting, Set, Costume and Sound Designer to work alongside two new positions; an AV Designer and Stage Manager.

In partnership with the RAC, the program includes exclusive skills development and workshop opportunities with international visiting artists, close contact with Black Swan staff, and the opportunity to create original, edgy and contemporary work.