Following the success of its previous cohorts, Norwich Theatre is opening applications for its Young Cultural Leaders programme, an ambitious two-year initiative designed to empower young people to shape the future of leadership.
The programme is open to anyone aged 18–25 who is passionate about developing leadership skills and making a difference in the region. You don’t need a background in the arts to apply; Norwich Theatre welcomes young leaders from all sectors who want to make a difference. The programme is fully funded, with no cost for participants to take part.
Hayley Murrow, Creative Learning Partnerships Manager at Norwich Theatre, said:
“Our ambition is to provide the opportunity to gain practical skills, learn how to shape and define leadership, and diversify local boards to incorporate younger voices. We want to ensure that the decision-makers of tomorrow have a seat at the table today.”
The first year of the programme focuses on exploring leadership styles, lived experiences, and unique pathways through sessions with guest speakers and opportunities to reflect with peers at social events.
Participants will have the option to continue into the second year of the programme, which provides a deeper exploration of governance and the opportunity to progress to the Norwich Theatre board.
Ollie Harrington, a previous Young Cultural Leader and current Norwich Theatre Board Member, said: “At the start of my career, the world of ‘governance’ often seemed stuffy or scary, but the Young Cultural Leaders programme demystified leadership and showed me that younger voices belong in the boardroom. I now use the skills and confidence I built up as a Young Cultural Leader to boldly advocate for younger perspectives when making big decisions as a Trustee at Norwich Theatre.”
How to Apply
Interested applicants are invited to email learning@norwichtheatre.org explaining why they are interested in joining the programme.
The deadline for applications is Friday, 17 July 2026.