Artist support network Stamp launches in London

London-based theatre organisations including the Barbican and the Old Vic have launched a network dedicated to improving support for artists and promoting theatre.

Stamp, which stands for ‘supporting theatre and makers of performance’, has been formed by 26 organisations which also include the National Theatre, Camden People’s Theatre and the Yard.

Among other members are the Arcola Theatre in Dalston, Battersea Arts Centre, Soho Theatre, Stratford Circus and theatre companies Tamasha, Yellow Earth and Talawa.

Stamp aims to improve knowledge and working practices within the sector by launching a series of events for producers and artists and publishing a programming database for London venues. It will also lobby decision-makers to improve living and working conditions.

Members will meet every two months and communicate through an online forum.

The network, officially launching this week, was established in 2016 following Arts Council England-funded research into the experiences of emerging theatremakers, undertaken on behalf of the Camden People’s Theatre, which indicated the need for greater dialogue between London theatre organisations with artist support programmes.

The network is inspired by similar models elsewhere in the country, such as Venues North.

Brian Logan, artistic director of Camden People’s Theatre, said: “In person, and via research we commissioned in 2014, CPT artists told us loudly and clearly that they wanted joined-up thinking, transparency and collaboration between London venues and artist support programmes.

“Stamp is the result, and we’re thrilled it’s happening. Alongside our partner organisations, we at CPT are dedicated to ensuring Stamp makes London a more accommodating, easy-to-navigate and creative landscape for artists making new theatre and performance.”

Kate Varah, executive director at the Old Vic, said: “We are delighted to be a part of the Stamp network, which will enhance our capacity to support of a wide range of artists and artistic organisations beyond the Old Vic’s walls.

“Creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all theatremakers to explore and create new work is essential. We very much look forward to working collectively to share resources and experience, so that artists have the tools and foundations they need to create work that will keep London at the forefront of pioneering, daring theatre.”