Applications for The Optimists Summer 2026 course are now closed.
Here is a run-down of some key bits and places to find information about the course:
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Information about The Optimists course can be found on our Opportunities page – this includes application guidelines and details on how to apply. Accessible formats are available, including BSL & captioned and audio introductions about the course, alongside large print formats.
FAQ’s
We also have a FAQ’s sheet available to download below – this covers the key questions we are often asked about the course. If you have any additional questions, please contact our Training & Development Producer Kristina on [email protected]
COURSE OVERVIEW
This year’s Optimist course is suitable for emerging producers, administrators, artists and creative practitioners, who are hoping to develop their skills as professional producers, or as a producer of their own work, in the subsidised arts sector.
The course is open to participants nationwide, and those working across different art forms (e.g., dance, live art, spoken word, etc.) but has a particular focus on producing and touring live work in the theatre industry.
Sessions: 10 in-person sessions taking place over 7 weeks
Dates: Between Saturday 13th June and Saturday 1st August 2026
Location: Venues across the West Midlands
Spaces: For up to 20 participants
Costs:
- For freelancers/individuals: £480 per person (inclusive of VAT)
- For organisations: £660 per person (inclusive of VAT)
Bursaries are available, covering the full cost of the course, to those who face cultural barriers and inequity due to factors including (but not limited to) race, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, neurodiversity, socioeconomic status, and geographic location. If this applies to you, we encourage you to apply for a bursary.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.
2025 ALUMNI REFLECTIONS
We caught up with one of last year’s cohort members Linzi, to find out what she enjoyed about the programme, what has influenced her approach to producing, and what are her biggest takeaways post the course.
If you would like to have a read, Linzi’s blog can be found here.
“I loved hearing from so many creative and talented people at all stages of their careers, giving a real insight into the world of producing. I made amazing friends and it was so useful to connect with people who are at the same stage as me, with shared ambitions.” – Optimist alumni 2025
“The Optimists has equipped me with invaluable insight into producing theatre, and specifically in the West Midlands. The course is led by an incredibly welcoming and generous team at China Plate who offer their advice and industry knowledge freely and in a safe learning environment. The course is underpinned throughout with, dare I say it, optimism, leaving every single person excited about jumping into the industry or their next project with passion, hope, and knowledge.” – Optimist alumni 2025
ANYTHING ELSE?
If you would like to be kept up to date about upcoming Training & Development opportunities from China Plate, our partners and wider producer community, please sign up to receive regular email updates.
Alternatively, check out our People-Focused Producing programme.
