PROGRAMME

Thursday 15th May
11:00am – 3:00pm
Crewe Lyceum Theatre
Young people, students, early and mid-career creatives, artists, and those interested and already in working in the arts

Ready to kickstart or elevate your creative career? Join Northern Soul Productions and Crewe Lyceum Theatre at Make It Happen: Creative Careers & Connections—a dynamic day of inspiration, networking, and practical insights designed to help you thrive in the creative industries. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next step, this event connects you with industry professionals, funding opportunities, and the vibrant creative community in Crewe, Cheshire, and beyond.

11:00am – Welcome & Introduction

Location: Gallery Bar
Kick off the day with a warm welcome and overview of the event by Graham McKnight, Theatre Director of Crewe Lyceum Theatre. Brief outline of the sessions, networking areas, and how to make the most of the day.

11:15am – How We Made Keep On Keepin’ On

Speakers: Northern Soul Productions & Students from Crewe UTC
Location: Gallery Bar
Hear directly from the creative team and young collaborators behind this inspiring production. Discover what it takes to create a show from the ground up, and the power of partnership between professionals and students.

11.45am – Funding Your Practice: ACE Project Grants & DYCP

Speaker: Arts Council England
Location: Gallery Bar
A must-attend session for artists and creatives looking to fund their work. Learn how to apply for Project Grants and Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP) with tips and insights from Arts Council England staff.

12.30pm –  Local Support for Artists & Creatives

Speaker: Crewe Creates CIC
Location: Gallery Bar
Discover how Crewe Creates CIC supports early to mid-career visual and multidisciplinary artists across Crewe and Cheshire. From funding advice to mentoring, training, space, and gear – we offer tailored, localised support. Hear real stories of artist success and learn about our growing creative community through Crewe Cultural Forum and Crewe//Makes: Artspace.

1.00pm – Backstage Careers Uncovered

Speakers: Porl Cooper, Sheffield Theatres and Your Trust Rochdale
Location: Gallery Bar
From lighting to sound, stage management to wardrobe, find out how to break into the exciting world behind the curtain. Get advice from a working professional and explore training and entry routes.

1:30pm – Getting Into Theatre Design

Speakers: North West Design Allotment
Location: Gallery Bar
Explore the creative world of theatre design and learn what it takes to develop a career in this field. From model boxes to mood boards, find out how to build your portfolio and get started.

2:00pm – Artist Development & Support Opportunities

Speakers: HOME Arches Manchester
Location: Gallery Bar
Discover how HOME Arches supports emerging artists across Greater Manchester and beyond through mentorship, commissions, residencies and more.

2:30pm – Getting into the TV & Film

Speakers: Creative England
Location: Gallery Bar
Guidance on how to navigate a career path within TV & Film

3:00pm – Event Close & Final Networking

Location: Lyceum Bar & Foyer
A final opportunity to connect with speakers, pick up contacts, and reflect on your next steps in the creative industries.

Additional Features Throughout the Day

Information Stalls: Open 11:00am–3:00pm in the Foyer. Chat with representatives, pick up resources, and explore opportunities.

Meet the Experts: Drop-in Q&A moments with speakers post-talks.

Creative Careers Resource Table: Packed with brochures, toolkits, and take-home guides.