Catalyst is a two-week residency at The North Wall Arts Centre in Oxford, providing a framework of support for early-career writers and directors to develop their craft, to progress their work and to establish a strong network of peer creatives. Six writers and three directors are selected through a national call-out, and paired with professional mentors and a company of actors. The first week is spent workshopping the writers’ scripts. During the second week a 15 minute section of each script is rehearsed with the acting company, and the residency culminates in a public sharing of work.
There is no cost to take part in the Catalyst programme. We have some accommodation available for those travelling from outside Oxford; please let us know if this is required on your application. In addition, we are able to provide lunch and dinner to participants on any working days.
Watch this video to find out more about Catalyst at The North Wall:
Supporters
We are hugely grateful to our ArtsLab: Catalyst 2026 Programme Partners: St Clare’s, Oxford and Oxford School of Drama.
With thanks to The North Wall Arts Centre’s principal sponsor St Edward’s School, Oxford.
