Deadline: 05-May-2026
The Performing Arts Programme 2025–26 provides funding to UK organisations for original performing arts projects and professional development for artists. Grants typically amount to £4,000 and support music, theatre, dance, and other performance genres, with a focus on early- and mid-career artists and projects outside London and Southeast England.
The programme encourages creativity, excellence, and impactful public engagement, helping organisations develop original work and strengthen the UK’s performing arts sector.
Programme Overview
The funding supports:
- New works in performing arts: commissioning, development, production, and performance of original pieces
- Professional development: programmes addressing gaps for early- and mid-career artists, reflecting current practices and contexts
The programme prioritises excellence and impact, focusing on smaller-scale initiatives where funding can make a meaningful difference.
Funding Details
- Grant amount: Around £4,000 per project
- Purpose: Support specific elements of performing arts projects or targeted professional development
- Payment conditions: Funds must be used solely for the approved project and acknowledged in publicity
Eligibility
Eligible organisations must:
- Be UK-registered charities or local authority-run venues
- Have an annual turnover under £1.5 million
- Operate within the UK, with preference given to regions outside London and Southeast England
Ineligible applicants include:
- Individuals or Community Interest Companies (CICs)
- Projects focused primarily on religion, therapy, or social welfare
- Activities involving mainly under-18 participants or school-only settings
- Amateur performances, standalone recordings, visual arts projects, capital developments, or projects outside the UK
Project Requirements
- New works: Must include a clear public outcome
- Professional development: Cannot fund bursaries, scholarships, single-recipient opportunities, traineeships, awards, or programmes limited to rehearsal/performance only
Application and Reporting
- Organisations must submit an application detailing project aims, outcomes, and budget
- Impact report required within 12 months of project completion
- Any project changes require prior approval, and unused funds must be returned
Key Benefits
- Strengthens the UK performing arts sector
- Supports original work and artist development
- Encourages regional engagement and public access to performing arts
- Promotes creative excellence in music, theatre, dance, and other performance genres
FAQs
1. Who can apply?
UK-registered charities and local authority-run venues with turnover under £1.5 million.
2. What types of projects are eligible?
New works (commissioning, development, production, performance) and professional development for early- or mid-career artists.
3. What is the typical grant amount?
Approximately £4,000 per project.
4. Are projects outside London and the Southeast prioritised?
Yes, with organisations in these regions encouraged to consult the Grants Director before applying.
5. Are school-based or under-18 projects eligible?
No, the programme does not fund projects primarily involving under-18 participants or school-only settings.
6. How must funds be used?
Only for the approved project, with acknowledgement in publicity and submission of an impact report.
Final Takeaway
The Performing Arts Programme 2025–26 supports creative, high-quality performing arts projects and professional development opportunities, enabling UK organisations to develop original work, nurture artists, and engage the public, with particular encouragement for regional initiatives.
For more information, visit The Leche Trust.