Artistic Policy
We aim to celebrate, encourage and nurture short plays, valuing their validity as pieces of theatre in their own right. We do not believe that the short play is merely a showcase of a playwright’s potential were they given the opportunity to write a ‘full length’ piece.
As audience habits change with the influence of television, film and the immediacy of online media, we champion the art of writing concisely and vibrantly in the hope of attracting to the theatre anyone who may have stayed away in dread of what may seem to involve a three-hour slog.
Big ideas thrill us. That we ask for plays to be no longer than 15 minutes, does not mean that the concepts and themes therein need to be small. Experiments with language, genres, style and tone are welcomed; as is the brave addressing of the taboo and heart-felt tackling of social issues. Epics can happen in 15 minutes.
Based on our own empirical knowledge from previous years’ festivals, there is no doubt that the very best work emerges from a company that fully embraces the give and take of true collaboration. We will always favour creatives who truly understand this concept.
We advocate strongly the creation of an open, honest, friendly atmosphere in the rehearsal room; an environment where writer, director and actor inspire and in turn are inspired by each other’s input.
Off Cut is an ideal opportunity for industry professionals to see a large collection of UK talent in one go. With this in mind, we take very seriously the notion of using the festival as a fruitful showcase for all the creatives involved. We ensure that all of the most influential agents, employers and theatre companies are invited to the event.
Central to our ethos is the role the audience plays in the theatre experience. By using the voting process as an integral part of the festival as a whole, we strive to attract as diverse an audience as possible. Our aim is to develop a sense of belonging in regular theatre-goers, as well as sparking the interest and curiosity of those who may never have been to the theatre at all. In all instances, we are explicit in letting the audience know that the festival is entirely reliant on their input.
Theatre is for everyone. Our intension is to encourage writers, directors and actors from all sections of society to apply to us. To that end, we will endeavour to reach as many groups and associations that reflect that diversity as possible when making the call for participants.