PROGRAMMES
Level Up!
Growing Waikato Performing Arts Together
Ready to take your next significant step?
Level Up! is Clarence Street Theatre’s annual performing arts development programme, supporting Waikato performing arts organisations, collectives and creative teams to grow their capability, realise ambitious projects
WHAT IS LEVEL UP?
Many talented Waikato artists and organisations reach a point where they are ready to do more. They have the vision, the people and the passion, but may need support to take the next step. Level Up! was created to help bridge that gap.
Each year, Clarence Street Theatre partners with one Waikato performing arts organisation, collective or creative team to deliver an ambitious project while building capability, developing people and creating lasting benefits for the wider arts community.
Level Up! is not a grant programme. It is a development partnership designed to help organisations grow.
WHAT DOES “LEVEL UP” MEAN?
Every arts group or organisation has a next significant step. For some, that might be:
- Producing work at a larger scale
- Performing in a larger venue
- Reaching new audiences
- Developing leadership capability
- Building technical expertise
- Creating opportunities for emerging practitioners
Level Up! helps make that next step possible.
WHO CAN APPLY?
Expressions of Interest are welcome from Waikato-based:
- Theatre companies
- Musical theatre groups
- Dance organisations
- Cultural performance groups
- Comedy producers
- Performing arts collectives
- Creative partnerships and collaborations
Applicants do not need to be formally incorporated organisations. We welcome applications from established organisations, emerging groups and experienced practitioners coming together around a shared vision.
WHAT SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE?
Every Level Up! Partner receives a tailored package of support that may include:
- Venue access and infrastructure
- Technical expertise and mentoring
- Production support
- Marketing and audience development support
- Leadership and organisational development
- Sponsorship and fundraising advice
- Industry connections and networking
- Profile raising through Clarence Street Theatre channels
OUR FIRST PARTNER
Deller Productions is the inaugural Level Up! Partner. Through the programme, Deller is presenting The SpongeBob Musical at Clarence Street Theatre in 2026.
This project is creating opportunities for performers, creatives, technicians and audiences while demonstrating the impact that can be achieved when local organisations are supported to take their next significant step.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
Applications Close 31 August 2026
Partner Announced October 2026
FAQ
Do I need a fully developed project?
No. We’re interested in your aspirations, potential and readiness to grow. Project ideas can continue to develop throughout the selection process.
Do I need to be an incorporated organisation?
No. Applications are welcome from organisations, collectives and creative teams.
Does my project need to take place at Clarence Street Theatre?
Projects will generally be delivered at Clarence Street Theatre, however alternative approaches may be considered where they align with programme objectives.
How many partners are selected?
One Level Up! Partner is selected each year.
