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Belltable:Connect gives 10 research bursaries for theatre artists

The Belltable:Connect research bursaries will help local theatre artists develop an idea over the course of May 2020.

Belltable:Connect gives 10 research bursaries for theatre artists

By I Love Limerick Correspondent Sophia DiBattista

Belltable:Connect has announced a new bursary to facilitate 10 artists during the COVID-19 emergency. Following restrictions put in place by the government many artists have seen their shows postponed or canceled, with many having to put full tours on hold.


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Belltable:Connect is opening applications for 10, €1000 bursaries for performers and theatrical artists starting Friday, April 24.

Belltable:Connect has been supporting theatre artists from all around Limerick. As one of the city’s most prominent theatre spots, the organisation has been supporting performers and creators since 2016. Their vast range of mentorships, classes, commissions, residencies and productions have brought forth more appreciation for the arts in Limerick. 

Now with these bursaries, more artists can explore their theatrical prowess. The applications open on 12 pm noon this Friday, April 24 for people who want to conduct research in May.

There are 2 stages in this bursary scheme. Stage 1 involves the distribution of the bursaries and allowing the recipients to explore their idea regarding theatre, taking place in May 2020. 

Stage 2 includes those recipients taking their idea further in the second half of the year. Limerick Culture and Arts Office, of Creative Ireland, will give another €2,500 to successful applicants. This Made in Limerick Belltable:Connect bursary will further the research of recipients and continue their studies. Applications will be posted in the second half of 2020.

During the frightening times surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to continue to support artists faced with financial difficulties. Belltable:Connect is helping this cause by promoting research even in the darkest of times. The bursaries will keep the arts alive and motivate local artists who want to get involved and have something to create.

Marketta Dowling, Belltable:Connect programme manager discussed this scheme, saying, “We have become a performing arts hub in Limerick’s city centre and a space where artists and the public come together to develop and explore new work and new ideas. In these uncertain and troubling times, when many artists are faced with loss of bookings and financial income, Belltable:Connect wants to play its part to help local theatre makers make it just a little easier to dream and research.” 

“We’re aware that when creative plans were disrupted, some of our colleagues may have more time on their hands, while others have taken on caring responsibilities. With this in mind, we have €10,000 in bursaries, thanks to Belltable:Connect’s principal funder, the Arts Council, and our partners. Ten bursaries of €1,000 each are offered for local theatre artists to explore a new idea for about five days throughout the month of May,” she added.

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