In partnership with Accidental Theatre, funded by Shared Island Civic Society Fund.
A two-week residency offering early-career artists dedicated space, time and resources to develop their craft or creative project. Hosted at Accidental in Belfast and An Grianán Theatre in Letterkenny.
Residency Objectives
The first edition of the Northern Borders Residency, in partnership with Accidental and An Grianán Theatre, and funded by Shared Island Civic Society Fund.
It is a two-week residency offering early-career artists dedicated space, time and resources to develop their craft.
The residency is open to all art forms, and to all artists based in the northern counties of Ireland – Donegal, Sligo, Monaghan, Louth, Tyrone, Leitrim, Derry, Cavan, Fermanagh, Armagh, Antrim and Down.
The programme’s aim is to give artists the opportunity and resources to develop a creative project, or simply the time and space away from everyday life to explore their creativity and craft. Prospective artists are encouraged to apply for the venue furthest from where they’re based – this enhances the residency experience, allowing for a genuine sharing of experience and a broadening of creative networks. Whether based at Accidental in Belfast or An Grianán in Letterkenny, artists will have access to a different space, community and creative context to their own. Chosen artists will be matched with a venue, based on location and artistic fit.
What the Residency Provides
- Two weeks of dedicated rehearsal space ranging from studios to main theatre spaces – open, self-structured time.
- Access to the resources of Accidental and An Grianán Theatre
- Support from in-house professionals
- Optional work-in-progress showing at the end of the residency, with invited audiences and professionals from around both venues
- Optional recording of the work, if desired
- Networking opportunities throughout the residency
- Accommodation and travel covered.
Fees & Expenses
Artist fee – €1,500 (or sterling equivalent)
Accommodation and travel are covered.
Duration
Two weeks.
Autumn/Winter 2026. Exact dates to be arranged by venue & participant.
Location
Accidental Theatre, Belfast or An Grianán Theatre, Letterkenny.
Artist Criteria:
Open to all art forms and disciplines – if you have a project or practice you want to develop, this residency is for you. Including, but not limited to, theatre makers, musicians, multidisciplinary artists, etc.
This project is a solo residency, however, there may be opportunities for collaboration in specific circumstances e.g with a specific repeat collaborator or with artists local to the venue. But please note, the fee will not change and accommodation is for the sole artist.
Applicants should be early-career artists based in the northern counties of Ireland – Donegal, Monaghan, Louth, Tyrone, Leitrim, Derry, Cavan, Fermanagh, Armagh, Antrim and Down
How to Apply:
- Artist CV / History of Practice
- An outline of what you would like to explore/get out of the residency
- Examples of your work (i.e. Recordings, photos, etc)
Shortlisted participants may be invited to discuss further with the relevant venue.
Please send applications to: info@accidentaltheatre.co.uk
Subject line: Northern Borders Artist Residency – [Your Name]
We actively encourage applications from people who are currently underrepresented in the arts sector, including those from Global Majority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, d/Deaf and disabled people, and those from working-class backgrounds. If you have access needs related to the application process, please let us know.
Closing Date: 31st August 2026 | 23:59
Please note applications will be scanned for AI/ML and may be rejected.
This Role is kindly supported by the Shared Island Civic Fund.
