Our Past, Your Future
Applications Now Open
Applications for this year’s bursaries are open now and close on Friday 29 May.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview, which will take place during June.
Our Past, Your Future Bursaries
Are you aged 16–25 and aiming for a future in the creative industries? Whether your passion is writing, performing, directing, visual art, sculpture, design, technical theatre, or any other creative pathway, the Our Past, Your Future bursaries are here to help you take your next step.
Each year, we offer a number of small bursaries to support young creatives with essential expenses, from travel and materials to audition fees, portfolios, short courses, and more. These bursaries are designed to remove financial barriers and give you the boost you need as you begin your creative journey.
Our wonderful partners in the project, Tallents Solicitors, said: “The Palace Theatre has been an important part of the Newark community we all live in for over 100 years, with an exceptional pedigree in both welcoming, encouraging and inspiring creative talent in our market town. Tallents Solicitors is very proud to have been a Principal Sponsor of the Palace Theatre Newark for many years, and to be their Centenary Sponsor as they continue to bring entertainment to our community.
“With our continuing support, we are delighted to be able to help the Palace Theatre Newark now reach out to the local community and encourage applications from anyone in need of a grant to enable them to become involved in the wonderful world of the theatre and performing arts.
“We look forward to seeing how this innovative and supportive arts programme will benefit the creative and talented people in our community as they embark on a fulfilling career in the performing arts.”
What award is available?
Following the application process, one applicant each year will be awarded £1,500 to put towards course fees and / or living expenses.
A second, discretionary award of
Following the application process, one applicant each year will be awarded £1,500 to put towards course fees and / or living expenses.
A second, discretionary award of £250-£500 may be granted to a second applicant if the panel feels it appropriate.
The full award will be paid out as follows:
£750 four weeks prior to planned course start date
£375 four weeks after course start date
£375 eight weeks after course start date
(In the event that the course is shorter than eight weeks, the second and third payments may be combined).
The discretionary award will be paid out four weeks after course start date.
£250-£500 may be granted to a second applicant if the panel feels it appropriate.
The full award will be paid out as follows:
£750 four weeks prior to planned course start date
£375 four weeks after course start date
£375 eight weeks after course start date
(In the event that the course is shorter than eight weeks, the second and third payments may be combined).
The discretionary award will be paid out four weeks after course start date.
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if:
- You are aged 16–25 (on 1 January of the year they would begin their course)
- Applicants must live in Newark and Sherwood.
- Award recipients must be able and willing to offer something to other young people in Newark after the completion of their course. This is not an obligation of discretionary award recipients, but it would be encouraged.
How to apply?
Applicants can find an application form here: Our Past Your Future Fund Application Form [765kb]
Completed forms should be emailed to palace@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk with the title Our Past Your Future Fund Application in the subject line. Application forms must be returned by 29 May 2026.
Supporting the Next Generation
Do you have any questions?
If you have any questions about the fund, please email Denise, our Learning and Participation Manager who will be able to answer them for you and discuss any aspects of the fund. You can email Denise at denise@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk.