Bristol Open Stage Returns to Bristol Old Vic as Part of the Legacy of the 250th Anniversary Celebrations

The highlight of Bristol Old Vic's 250th anniversary celebrations last year was Bristol Open Stage, which saw the theatre issue an invitation to the people of the city to take over the historic stage, culminating in a wildly joyous performance during the Birthday Weekend in May.

It was a phenomenal success, with over 350 Bristolians aged 6-91 treading the boards and capturing the spirit of the city. 2016 saw performances from poets, dancers and musicians, to playwrights and masters of martial arts, and audiences were captivated by the artists who proved that Bristol is a place where people dare to do things differently. It is in such spirit that Bristol Old Vic has been determined to continue as part of the 250th anniversary legacy.

Bristol Old Vic announce that Bristol Open Stage will return to the theatre in 2017. Taking place on the theatre's 251st birthday (Mon 29 May), the people of Bristol will be welcomed to the stage once again to share their stories over the course of one very special day.

Entry is free for everyone who wants to come along to support the acts taking part, family and friends are invited to join the general audience and celebrate the fantastic creativity of our city.

For those who would like to take part, application forms must be submitted by Monday 24 April. Applications can be submitted here: Bristol Open Stage 2017 Application Form.

MORE INFORMATION ON APPLYING TO PERFORM

Last year, we celebrated our 250th birthday by throwing open our stage to everyone in our extraordinary community for the very first Bristol Open Stage. Over two showcases and one extraordinary festival on our birthday weekend in May, we saw over 350 Bristolian acts share their own creative work in a celebration of Bristol's creative heart.

This year, Bristol Open Stage returns for our 251st birthday on Monday 29 May and we would like to invite everyone in Bristol to get involved. You might be a solo performer, an amateur theatre group, a songwriter, a community choir, a teacher, a stand-up comedian, a poet, a dancer, a lawyer, a street artist, a baker or a musician - we want to hear what you think makes Bristol special, be entertained by your inspiring stories and showcase your creativity.

How do I apply?
To get involved, all you need to do is get your idea together, and submit the Bristol Open Stage application form, available here: Bristol Open Stage 2017 Application Form, by Monday 24 April and tell us what you'd like to bring to our stage (maximum length 10 minutes).

We will give priority to those who want to present for the first time; but we'd also love to hear from Bristol Open Stage alumni who have appeared before but would like to present something new.

What happens next?
After the application deadline of Monday 24 April, we will confirm the time slot of your Bristol Open Stage sharing, and will be in touch to support the focusing of your idea. On the day itself - Monday 29 May - we encourage you to bring family, friends and supporters to enjoy your performance and those of others taking part. Tickets are free!

For further information and the latest updates visit bristololdvic.org.uk/bristol-open-stage-2017

Photo by Jack Offord

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