caravan assembly

caravan assembly is a showcase of contemporary theatre created in England for an international audience.

When is caravan assembly?

caravan assembly is a biennial event presented in partnership with Farnham Maltings and Brighton Festival.

Every two years we bring together the best of England’s contemporary theatre and performance and host a showcase for national and international programmers and producers.

caravan assembly takes place in Brighton, during the festival dates.

Who is it for?

caravan assembly is for artists who have work that is ready to be taken to the international stage, and for international programmers and producers who are looking to programme the best contemporary work being made in England.

In autumn of the year before assembly takes place, theatre artists and companies making work in England can apply to pitch or perform their work through an open call on our website.

National and international programmers and producers are invited to attend the event. To make this possible, we provide accommodation and offer a limited number of travel bursaries. If you are an international programmer or producer interested in coming to assembly, drop an email to our International Producer Hannah Smith via hannah.smith@farnhammaltings.com to arrange a conversation.

Alongside performances and pitches, both artists and delegates are invited to network with one another in informal, friendly formats that are designed to nurture connections and create opportunities.

How does the application process work?

assembly is a biennial event and the programme works on a two-year cycle. Approximately one-year before assembly is due to take place, we open an application process, inviting artists and companies with work they deem ready to take to the international stage, to apply to pitch or perform their work. A selection panel of UK and international programmers and producers choose the shows and pitches that will be part of the assembly.

The best way to hear about the next opportunity to apply is by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Instagram.

What happens if you are accepted to take part in assembly?

Congratulations! If you’re accepted to pitch or perform your work at assembly, there will first be some administration to make sure we have all the information we need from you. Then, we will prepare for the assembly itself. All accepted artists and companies will be matched with a mentor whose task it is to make sure they make the most out of the assembly experience. You will meet with your mentor pre- and post-assembly.

There will also be group training sessions around specific topics, based on the cohort's needs and interests.

What happens at assembly?

caravan is committed to breaking down hierarchical structures within the industry. At assembly, we create a safe space for artists and international delegates to understand each other's unique offerings and aspirations. Our goal is to foster the development of deeper connections and relationships among all participants, paving the way for a more inclusive and collaborative creative landscape.

At assembly, artists and delegates go on a journey, experiencing the different activities and components of the event together. From performances by the participating artists and companies to thought-provoking pitches and presentations, there's something to ignite everyone’s imagination.

All artists and delegates will be provided with a schedule so they know where they need to be and which performance, pitch, panel or networking event is happening when. Delegates will have access to information about all of the artists and companies taking part, including contact details and technical specifications, to support ongoing conversations and potential collaborations.

What happens after assembly?

For participating artists and companies, the assembly programme will continue for two years following the event. Each participant will continue to meet with their mentor, and there will also be a programme of training sessions. These are a mix of in-person and virtual events, depending on the needs of the cohort.

assembly is about sparking connections and developing relationships. This post-event programme of professional development is designed to help you to deepen relationships made at assembly and bring about new, exciting opportunities for your work.

What impact does assembly have for artists?

Since its inception in 2008, 214 artists and companies have been supported through assembly. Participating in assembly has helped them to create connections and build relationships that inspire and forge sustainable international ambitions.