OUR PURPOSE
Divided Culture Co. combines a network of artists across the North, dedicated to working on new work to develop the strength of the visual art sector in rural, and under-represented communities.
We're dedicated to showcasing fresh, new talent. Providing opportunities for development and growth, bringing new narratives to the forefront of theatre and tackling society, form and politics head on.
We're shifting the focus on regional theatre, removing the need to live in London for opportunities in the industry - usually coming at a cost of financial security. Prioritising new, Northern stories told by local creatives. We're small but mighty and are focused on addressing the imbalance in the British arts industry.
With theatre and film firmly in our focus - we've got loads of exciting plans and can't wait to bring new creativity to the communities and places that we live and love.
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DARE TO INNOVATE
THE 2024-2026 PLAN
A 3-year project plan, developed by industry leaders for future leaders. In the delivery plan, we have a variety of outputs, to reflect the diversity of our region and maintain an offering for all.
In 2024, we officially launched an arm of the business classified as a 'Community Interest Company' meaning the work that we create is on a not-for-profit basis, and is for social good. We toured Toxic to five selected areas of the North West - all in-line with Arts Council England's Priority Places list. Partnering with new venues such as the Old Electric in Blackpool and the Carriageworks in Leeds, reaching new audiences and connecting with new creatives!
In early 2025, to finalise our first year of Dare to Innovate, we completed an R&D of Millennium in Rochdale. An exciting new writing project that pushes boundaries, both for the company and the Manchester arts-scene. A few weeks later, launched the DCC Playwriting Commission for eight weeks - an opportunity for playwriters across the North West to submit their work for a financial prize and a production, mentorship and in-kind offers.
In late 2025, comes our new programme of arts engagement 'Future Artists Initiative' - launching in-line with the academic year. We're heading to schools, colleges and alternative provisions across Greater Manchester, meeting young artists who need an in. Developing a programme of works across the region, led by these future artists, in-cohesion with their institutions and our partners. We're reshaping outreach, and giving value back to communities.
In 2026, we have our biggest year yet! With the Future Artists Initiative still running, we have a full-scale realisation of Millennium - designed to be experienced by and made by local creatives that have joined us via Dare to Innovate. Alongside this, we have an R&D for a new project and a short-film released!
THE METHODOLOGY
DARE TO INNOVATE x FUTURE ARTISTS INITIATIVE
Launched in Summer 2024, Divided Culture Co's three-year project 'Dare to Innovate' seeks to lead the organisation into the next generation of artistry. The company commits to:
1) Making original work, with local emerging artists discovered through our programmes that provide pathways into our business, funders, partners and charitable networks. We will continue to be a voice for new writing, and work in innovative ways that champion inclusion, diversity and equity for all. The work we make will be challenging, possess cultural capital and engaging for local communities.
2) Developing future artists, in our work and in our flagship programme launching in Autumn 2025 'Future Artists Initiative'. With a focus on Greater Manchester, starting with educational partners - we seek to be an artist development leader in the borough and have a long-term collaboration strategy with local charities & non-profits to enhance the quality, longevity and impact of the project.
3) Be a small-scale leader, operating a business model that puts people first, fairly. Working with safe and effective processes and led by a team that are qualified, experienced and share the same values. We're on a mission to be one of the primary makers in the North West, and through this growth, will remain committed to transparency, being community-led and not-for-profit.
To find out more about working with us on our development strategies, get in touch: hello@dividedcultureco.com