Genesis Foundation collaborates with HighTide to create the Genesis Laboratory

On March 15th, HighTide will launch their brand new research and development studio, home of the Genesis Laboratories, underneath the Waterloo Brasserie.  Opposite the National Theatre Studio and the Old Vic Theatre, the studio is situated in the heart of theatreland and is set to revolutionise development potential for the work of emerging artists from across the entire theatre spectrum.

The programme is set to be headed up by HighTide's newly appointed Associate Director, Natalie Ibu, and will kick off with artists sourced through our open-access system of unsolicited script submissions.  Beth Steel's Ditch, which will premiere at this year's HighTide Festival before it transfers to London in May, will be the subject of the first Genesis Lab.  The second will be directed by Natalie Ibu and will be a new play by another of HighTide's Writers in Residence, Frances Ya-Chu Cowhig.  Opening the programme with two of this year's most hotly-tipped young writers is intended to spark an ongoing tradition throughout the year of developing the very best emerging talent.

We're delighted to be working closely with two giants in the theatre industry on this new programme.  Having the support of John Studzinski and the Genesis Foundation, and the generosity of Sally Greene and the Waterloo Brasserie, has made possible a year-round, open-access, no holds barred infrastructure which will tangibly make a difference to new writing in this country. Sam Hodges, Artistic Director, HighTide

As a long-term patron of HighTide, I'm delighted to be able to offer them high-quality rehearsal space as part of this exciting and innovative new programme.  HighTide have established themselves as the leading new writing theatre culture in this country and this new initiative, in conjunction with the Genesis Foundation, is set to open even more open doors and opportunities for emerging artists. Sally Greene, Chief Executive, Old Vic Theatre and Waterloo Brasserie

To read more about this exciting collaboration, please see the press release.