It's time to announce our New Associates cohort for 2024/25!

We have been overwhelmed with the positive response to this year's call out and the amount of applications we received - double the amount we received last year! So, we had quite the task whittling down the longlist to find this year's cohort. But, after careful consideration we were able to create a group of 18 brilliant emerging artists across a range of disciplines that represent the diverse world that we live in.

Without further ado, meet our New Associates for 2024/25 below:

Daniel McVey

Dan is a Nottingham-based Director, Writer, Theatre-maker, and Stage Manager. Lots of the work they create revolves around disassembling the canon through adaptation and queering narratives. Dan enjoys creating work that is abstract and surreal but that retains a human core.

Dan has been playwrighting for eight years, predominantly adaptation. This includes a run of his adaptation of Woyzeck, ‘Franz and Marie: Woyzeck Retold’, at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and then Nottingham Lakeside Arts, and their adaptation of ‘Doctor Faustus’ which he originally directed and was recently revived in 2024 for a new production.

As a director Dan has worked on projects including ‘Provocation’, ‘Rage’, and ‘Pareidolia’, the latter of which they wrote, and put on in nontraditional spaces in 2019, then as a piece of digital theatre in 2020. He has also assistant directed on projects including ‘It’s Not Rocket Science’ and ‘Insulted: Belarus(sia)’.

“I’m incredibly excited to be a part of this year’s New Associates cohort, I can’t wait to work with such an incredible company of artists and to see how my practice will develop with the support and community this will provide.”

 

Doug Deans

Doug is a writer, actor-musician and jack-of-theatrical-trades. He writes stage work from a proudly autistic perspective, occasionally with music. Doug's most recent play is the award nominated Edinburgh Fringe hit, '24, 23, 22', which is having a it's first German language production at the Tortermtheater Sommerhausen in 2024. In 2022, Doug's play 'Mother.Dad' received a professionally staged rehearsed reading with the Lyric Hammersmith, starring Susannah Fielding and Tom Mothersdale. Doug is an Essex man residing in the East Midlands, who's life and background bleeds into his words. He has a determination to work in this industry and nobody is going to stop him.

"It's a rough ride working as a theatre artist at the moment. It's even more rough if you're an early career artist. So thank the gods that a company as nationally renowned as New Perspectives sees the value in us early career artists. I have a wonderful year of support ahead of me from a wonderful organisation, and I intend to use up every ounce of it." 

 

Eden Peppercorn

Eden is a performer, director, theatremaker and visual artist born in Sydney and raised in the West Midlands. Their work often sits at the intersection of queerness, mess, literature and performance art, with a love of the visual and a taste for the weird.

Whilst studying at Bristol University their Edinburgh Festival Fringe directorial debut Elise was nominated for a 2018 Mental Health Fringe Award and in 2019 their first original full length play That Which Feeds Me was produced in association with the university. As a performer their credits include To Sir, With Love at the Birmingham Rep and Butterfly by Bedlam Chorus at Vault Festival 2020.

In December 2023 they graduated from RCSSD’s MA in Advanced Theatre Practice, where their experimental collaborative company BLOODSUCKER Theatre was formed. BLOODSUCKER’s debut work - ME LOOKING AT HER LOOKING AT ME - was first staged at Camden People’s Theatre in August 2023. 

“I’m so excited to be a part of this years’ New Associates - to develop my practice with New Perspectives’ support and to form new connections with other creatives across the region. I can't wait to get stuck in!”

 

Emma Gray

Emma Gray is a Nottingham based Performer and Director from Grimsby. She graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in 2018 with a degree in Drama, Applied Theatre and Education and in 2021 won the Nottingham Young Creatives award for Theatre. With a background in both film and theatre making, she has had screenings of her work at Broadway Cinema and sold out performances of her debut play Yeah, No, Fine. (performed by Emma and Grace Carter) at the Nottingham Playhouse in 2023.

 

So far this year Emma has Assistant Directed Sugar Punch's production of Grimm in Hull and is working on a production of Pinoccio at Bridge House Theatre in Warwick whilst continuing work on Yeah, No, Fine. with creative partner Grace Carter, for further performances in August of this year. She has also worked with New Perspectives on their most recent Open Pitch Project developing Susie Brighouse's play Black Diamond Dancers.

 

Inspired by the likes of Victoria Wood and Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Emma has a passion for comedy and creates work that connects to people through the simple joys of life, encouraging play and building community through shared experiences.

 

“My favourite thing about theatre is how it connects to people through the act of creative storytelling. I feel honoured to come alongside New Perspectives as an Associate and so excited to learn from a theatre company who put people at the core of the work they create.”

 

Esme Sears

Esme is an actress, emerging writer and director who trained at Drama Studio London & Associated Studios.

Acting Credits:

Three Billy Goats Gruff (Polka & Derby Theatres), Gaze (Northern Stage),The Wizard of Oz (Leeds Playhouse), The Jungle Book (Derby Theatre), Return of the Soldier (Hope Mill & New Wolsey Theatres), A Little Night Music & The Crucible (Storyhouse Theatre), Cinderella (Derby Theatre), State of Fear: Britain For Breakfast (Southwark Playhouse).

Narrator for RNIB Talking books, audiobooks include ‘Stranded’ by Sarah Goodwin, ‘Arctic Zoo’ by Robert Muchamore, 'Ellie and the Cat' by Malorie Blackman.

Directing Credits: 

Do You Get Your Hair Permed? and Train On Fire (Wolverhampton Arena Theatre), Once Upon a Time in Narcissia (Lincoln Performing Arts Centre), Spectrum for Creo Theatre Festival (Hen & Chickens Theatre). Assistant director for ‘Grenfell: System Failure (Scenes from the inquiry)’ at the Playground, Tabernacle & Marylebone Theatres in London.

“I am really excited for the opportunity to be a New Perspectives associate and to be part of a nurturing creative community. I appreciate the chance to explore telling stories in new ways about finding self love & acceptance through adversity.”

 

Grace Carter

Grace is an actor/writer from Notts. She did her actor training with the Talent First from 2015-2023, did an English Degree, then did a Masters in Creative Writing.  Grace loves any writing that’s funny, slightly sinister, a bit mad. Some of her plays include I Don’t like Cricket, a psychoanalytical monologue about a young woman who does something awful (performed by Grace at Talent First Studios in 2022), Yeah, No, Fine., a chaotic hour about burnout, (performed by Grace and Emma Gray at Homegrown Festival and Amplify Festival at Nottingham Playhouse in 2023), and Pubtalk, a character- led climate play which came runner up in the 2023 ATG Playwright’s Prize (in association with Platform Presents). Grace also worked with the New Perspectives team on their last Open Pitch project, where they developed a play called ‘Black Diamond Dancers’ by Susie Brighouse.

“I love the work New Perspectives create, so to get on board the New Associates is really special to me. Can’t wait to get in the room with some feisty creatives and sharp brains! I know I’m going to learn loads.”

 

Hannah Harris

Hannah Harris is a neurodivergent artist from Mansfield and proud member of the Unanima Theatre Group. Hannah’s passion lies in creating work based on real life, bringing to light stories and issues often overlooked or deemed less important. Through her art, she aims to challenge perceptions and amplify voices that deserve to be heard. Hannah firmly believes that art is fundamental to activism and education. Fundamentally, they want to show that neurodivergent and disabled individuals can create theatre that is equal in quality to that of neurotypical and non-disabled artists.

Hannah’s theatre-making journey began in 2021 when they completed a Regional Young Theatre Developers placement at Mind the Gap theatre company as an assistant director. This experience furthered her interest in theatre-making, prompting her to join "Transforming Leadership," a placement and coaching programme empowering new learning disabled and/or autistic leaders in the arts.

“I'm honoured to be part of New Associates, where artists and practitioners come together to learn, grow, and shape the future of our craft. I’m looking forward to developing my work and continuing my exciting journey of exploration and creativity!”

 

Helen Crevel

Helen is an actor, writer and theatre/filmmaker of mixed heritage. She is passionate about making work about social issues and in collaboration with her communities. Her recent work includes '37 Plays' (RSC), 'Seagirl' (Carbon Theatre), 'Time and the Skyfox', 'Willow's Winter Hug' and the award-winning 'Bramble Ramble' (all Outside In Theatre) as well as taking her original audio installation piece of 'Seedling' to CSET Fest, Budapest. Her latest work is 'Cub', a brand new audio installation about the climate crisis made for and with young people aged 7-12, in partnership with Cottesmore Academy in Rutland. She also currently has several multi-sensory, immersive projects in development.

Additionally, Helen works as an audiobook narrator and enjoys creating these immersive worlds. Her recent titles include 'The Funeral Cryer' by Wenyan Lu and 'Sunbirds' by Mirandi Riwoe. Her debut feature film 'Anamnesis' is due for release this year.

“Thank you New Perspectives! I'm thrilled to be joining the New Associates cohort this year and can't wait to start learning new things, developing my skillset and having the opportunity to meet so many other Midlands-based creatives.”

 

Hollie Westwood

Hollie is a Midlands born creative producer, facilitator and writer who graduated from The Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with a BA (Hons) in Applied Theatre (Community and Education). She has recently completed her Masters degree in Arts and Project Management where her research explored the state of cultural policy in England and connections between rurality, community and culture.

Living and working in rural Leicestershire, she is currently focused on improving support for artists living rurally through work with the creative network The Culture Club in Melton Mowbray.

Much like her research, Hollie’s theatre practice looks at rurality, community and life as an artist. Her work often uses local history, folk tales and puppetry whilst drawing on her own experiences with mental illness to tell compelling stories that connect with a range of audiences.

“It’s such a privilege to be afforded this opportunity - I can’t wait to meet my fellow associates and get to work!”

 

Ishi Khan

Internationally acclaimed and multi-award nominated comedian Ishi Khan has been spreading joy since birth, when she came out crying and everyone laughed! 

 

Born in Zambia with Indian ancestry, Ishi crept into stand up comedy like a cat finding its home and developed her unique blend of love, light, and laughter. 

 

Now based in Leicestershire, she’s been performing on the UK circuit since 2008 touring her solo shows ‘I am happy’, ‘I’m Migrant’ and ‘Love, desires, and strawberries’ as well as appearing at multiple festivals, MCing, delivering laughter therapy sessions and much more. 

 

With her fascinating world view and multicultural perspective, Ishi’s comedy is inspired by emotive responses to current affairs, a quest to understand the influence of culture and family, and an endearing and unfaltering desire to spread her unique brand of happiness to all who will listen!

 

“I’m honoured & delighted to be part of the New associate development programme with the award-winning touring New Perspectives Theatre company. I am excited about the 12 month  journey of professional artist development to absorb skills to help create new work and meet other artists to skill share with.”

 

Jessy Roberts

Jessy Roberts is a director and dramaturg from Lincolnshire. She trained at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and studied Theatre at the University of York. She is Senior Reader at the National Theatre, an Associate Writer of Middle Child Theatre, Associate Director of The Rondo Theatre and of Bomb Factory Theatre, and a member of the Mercury Theatre Directors Cohort 23/24. Recent Credits as Director include: PAKIt In by Adam Iqbal, Tap Root (Longlisted for The Women's Prize for Playwriting), THIRST and Untitled Sparkly Vampire Play, all by Ashley Milne, Girls With Wings & Trauma and BRANDED by India Peppe, and Period Dramas by Heather Milstead. As Assistant Director: Octopolis (Hampstead Theatre, dir. Ed Madden), Everybody Wants To be Ronaldo (Tectum Theatre/Birmingham Rep, dir. Nyasha Gudo) Broken Lad (Arcola Theatre, dir. Richard Speir), Absolute Scenes (Motion Bristol, dir. Tanuja Amarasuriya), and Crimes Camera Action (Theatre Royal Bath, dir. James Farrell).

"I'm so pleased to be a 24/25 New Associate. I'm looking forward to spending the attachment collaborating with the cohort and New Perspectives to come up with new exciting projects by, and for people in the East Midlands."

 

Martha Kent

Martha is a white woman in her 20s with long hair and a blue blazer sat in a theatre. 

 

Martha Kent is a Midlands-based theatre maker, theatre director, composer and musical director, specialising in musical theatre and new work, working with a wide range of theatres and companies. As a trained and experienced musician, she enjoys integrating theatre with music alongside other genres and art forms. She has worked as assistant director and composer with New Perspectives Theatre Company (Model Village, 2023), as assistant director on a show for children under the age of three, with the European Theatre Convention (Púpätko, 2023). She also has various professional credits as part of the directing team with Derby Theatre (Reimagine, 2022), National Youth Music Theatre (Ragtime, 2022) and Buxton Opera House (Matilda Jr., 2022). In 2024, she is working on a new contemporary musical about fairies, her debut blues-pop album and developing her theatre making skills as a storyteller, composer and creative. 

"I am thrilled to continue my affiliation with New Perspectives Theatre Company. NP has already provided me with invaluable opportunities to develop as a theatremaker and I cannot wait to be at the very heart of this programme and the company."

 

 

Meera Joshi

Meera is a South Asian actor and spoken word artist from the East Midlands, she graduated with a First Class Drama degree from De Montfort University (2020) and went on to train with award-winning Identity School of Acting in 2021. Recently, she became a member of The National Youth Theatre (2023) and is a member of The Belgrade Ensemble (2024). Her recent debut of the spoken word poem "Immig-rant" at The Core Corby (2023) marked a significant milestone, with plans underway to develop it into a live art performance. Her practice embodies a fusion of artistry and advocacy deeply rooted in community-centric storytelling and cultural representation. Influenced by politics, culture, and lived experiences, Meera utilises performance as a powerful tool to entertain, educate, and inspire. With a commitment to authentic cultural experiences and a dedication to crafting narratives rooted in community, she aims to amplify voices often overlooked or undervalued, advocating for positive change within communities.

 "I can’t wait for this journey to elevate and evolve my practice to new levels with the guidance and support of the New Associates over the next year. I’m thrilled to meet the team and get creative!"

Michelle Mother Hubbard 

Nottingham based Michelle Mother Hubbard is a self employed Poet, Writer, Story-weaver, African drummer, Workshop facilitator, Public speaker, and Creative practitioner. Her work addresses many themes including identity, diversity, adoption and family, herstory, heritage and culture, self empowerment and celebration. She enjoys using creative arts to break down barriers, redress stereotypes, bring people together, and raise awareness.  Co-founder and host of Blackdrop open mic spoken word nights. She has self published two collections of poetry (‘The Tapestry of a Black Woman’, and ‘The Irish-Jamaican’), and her work is included in a variety of anthologies. 

“Wow! Gotta say I’m really excited to have been chosen as a New Associate! Bring on the next 12 months of magic and fun and creative professional growth! I can’t wait!” 

 

Omar Khan

Omar is a director, facilitator and writer based in the Midlands, making work that spans theatre, film, audio and VR.

His work explores political and social issues that he shares a personal connection with He is also a musician and a DJ, which feeds into his work.

Collaboration sits at the heart of his process. Omar’s work supports artists and regional development, and engages marginalised communities, enabling conversations around topics including: grief, identity, and spirituality. 

He was a recipient of RTYDS’s 18 Month Residency, where he was placed at Derby Theatre and directed the regional premiere of ‘Mr Burns: A Post Electric Play’. He is also an alumnus of Birmingham REP’s Foundry scheme & Tamasha’s Directors Programme,

Current projects include: A Beginner’s Guide to Widowhood & The Trials (Nottingham Playhouse, in association with Donmar Warehouse) 

"Really looking forward to meeting the new cohort of New Perspectives associates. They always champion brilliant voices within the Midlands, and I can't wait to learn from everyone in the room."

Rukus

Rukus is a UK recording artist, DJ, Playwright, poet, and producer who has been professionally touring and performing both nationally and internationally.

Rukus’s has released music that have featured and had regular airplay on stations such Radio1, 1Xtra, Kiss, MTV Base, Channel U. He also had the opportunity to go on a UK tour with Mark Ronson after featuring with Amy Winehouse on his Valerie remix.

Rukus was picked by Apples & Snakes as one of Five nationwide poets exploring real and virtual spaces in five regions around England.

Rukus produced music and featured in Giff Gaff Mobiles National TV campaign #alltheboss.

During 2021 Rukus took time out of his music to focus on writing and was commissioned by Derby Theatre to write a play for their mainstage. 4 Walls was the result which debuted September 2023 and had a sold out 3 days run with great reviews.

“I am thankful and humbled to be included on this year’s programme. I believe this will allow me to develop, learn and acquire new skillsets, a true blessing! I’m looking forward to being a sponge and absorbing all I can.”

 

Serenah Cole

S. B. Cole (Serenah Cole) is a writer and workshop leader based in Leicester, with an MPhil in Playwriting Studies from The University of Birmingham. She has performed poetry for Apples & Snakes, and at venues including Glastonbury music festival and The Big Chill festival. She is an alumni of various writer development programmes, including the Royal Court Theatre’s Invitation Group. In 2023, she developed and delivered the Manifesto Project for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care System and NHS Trust. To celebrate the 75th birthday of the NHS, she was commissioned to deliver workshops with ethnically diverse staff and write a poem based on staff voices. This poem is due to be displayed in hospitals across the trust as part of an artwork by Vishal Joshi. In addition, Serenah has led creative writing workshops and tutorials at various schools and organisations including Curve Theatre, Unclassified Arts London, and Loughborough University.

“I am excited to be working with New Perspectives, this is a great opportunity to work with an organisation that has produced theatre by so many writers I admire, like Debbie Tucker Green, Tyrone Huggins and Gbolahan Obisesan.”

 

Sophie Jane Corner

Sophie Jane Corner studied Drama Studies at Demontfort university, Leicester (2015,2018). Since then she has gained credits within; film, theatre, commercial work and voice over with over fifty credits to her name. Sophie has continued her training with movement workshops notability, Advanced and Masterclass workshops with Frantic Assembly. She is also  BADC Member  Yoga Teacher Training (200 hrs) and most recently unarmed and rapier training with Kiel O'shea (BADC accredited). Her current focus is on physical theatre, being hired by Nottingham Playhouse as a physical theatre / movement specialist and director and writing poetry under her dedicated social media @inlimbophase. Sophie is currently writing and producing her first film 'Hindsight' hoping to release later this year, which combines her specialist skills under one format. Sophie is a founding member of "Amplify Actors Collective", a group for professional east midlands actors; running and facilitating weekly workshops for free, in collaboration with Nottingham Playhouse. 

 

“I am so excited to be a new associate for new perspectives and really grateful for this opportunity to work with the team and fellow creatives, in such a nourishing space. I can’t wait to see how this will further my personal development and career, whilst learning new skills and meeting and working with fellow new associates.”