Next Stage will support innovation in the opera and dance sectors by investing in transformative projects in Sustainability, Equality and Digital Transformation.
Next Stage is an intensive partnership between Opera Europa and FEDORA, the European Circle of Philanthropists of Opera and Ballet. FEDORA has already built a successful European platform around its annual prizes which encourage and support innovation in the fields of Opera, Ballet, Educational and Digital. FEDORA will coordinate the fundraising effort from public and private sources, working closely with Opera Europa as the expert partner, alongside specialists in the fields of Sustainability, Inclusivity and Digital Transformation.
Forty-five opera and dance companies in 17 countries have already committed to this initiative.
SUSTAINABILITY
Green initiatives increasing eco-responsibility and decreasing carbon footprint
INCLUSIVITY
Inclusive initiatives encouraging equal access and diversity
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Efficiency gains and creative opportunities through smart tech innovation
Next Stage aims to provide financial support to help boost transformation and innovation through sustainability, equality and digital transformation to build resilience within the performing arts sector.
Grants will be awarded to the organisations or groups of organisations with the most compelling projects that will help meet these objectives on, behind and beyond the stage.
The programme will start with a centralised market study in order to understand where the industry stands in the three fields.
In winter 2021 calls for applications will open for opera and dance companies to make their grant applications that will be assessed by expert committees to receive project funding.
Throughout the year the initiative will provide professional development activities as well as peer-learning and interdisciplinary best practice sharing events for professionals who are interested in developing their skills in these three areas. Opera Europa will develop dedicated forums for each strand, so that the full membership may benefit from the expertise gathered during the project.
