DARE

An introduction to PDIPS

We aim to support talented young arts practitioners in New Zealand to fulfil their career potential by providing the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the opera production process.

The Scholarship is a fully funded, nine-month opportunity, with one Scholar each year beginning their adventure in September. Working within a Framework designed specifically to maxmise the potential of the Scholar, the first seven months are spent in the UK at Opera North and the University of Leeds, followed by a month at The NBR New Zealand Opera and a month at the University of Canterbury, New Zealand.

The combination of experience in both countries at the heart of award-winning international opera companies, supported by academic mentoring from leading universities, provides an insight into artistic thinking and practice at the highest level.

Unlike many scholarships in the sector, PDIPS does not focus solely on an individual specialism. The PDIPS Scholar really gets under the skin of the full production process, from initial thoughts to the main-stage. By engaging with the broad spectrum of roles – planning, technical, music, communications to name but a few – the Scholar develops a deeper understanding of how the different pieces of the production jigsaw work together, and becomes better equipped for a career at a senior level.

We are developing a ‘Living Archive’ and each scholar will play a valuable role in building this globally accessible resource; a growing documentary exploring the production process from multiple perspectives.

Each Scholar is invited to explore, interrogate and interpret the production process from a perspective that is relevant to their career aspirations. Over the next three years, we are keen to support emerging talent in all areas of musical theatre, including conducting, voice and composition.