YOUNG artists in Southampton are to benefit from a major cash boost.

The Barker-Mill Foundation (BMF) is set to donate £35,000 per year over three years to Nuffield Southampton Theatres (NST) Laboratory Trainee Associate Programme, which is aimed at developing careers for emerging creative talents.

Launched in 2015, the Laboratory Creative Associate scheme provides an opportunity for early-career artists to undertake a one-year placement, developing skills and acting as artistic members of the laboratory team.

Each artist has the opportunity to assist with one of NST’s main stage productions before they can take the creative lead in their areas of expertise.

Laura Eastwood, director of development and communications at NST, said: “NST will mentor and support the successful candidates and give them full access to NST’s work as a producing theatre, and our extensive programme of received touring productions.

“The Associates will support Youth Theatre productions which in turn will give the youth theatre the chance to work with some of the county’s most exciting new talent. The donations from the Barker-Mill Foundation have been imperative for this to happen, this is a really exciting opportunity, so we are hugely grateful to them.”

NST works with more than 20,000 young people and community members each year, across schools, colleges, local groups and community projects.

It provides opportunities for young people to participate and attend live theatre.

Tim Jobling, trustee of the Barker-Mill Foundation, said: “Supporting new and emerging creative talent in Southampton is something that the Barker Mill Foundation is really passionate about. Several members of the Barker-Mill family themselves have pursued careers in the arts so anything we can do to support others is a real privilege.”

To take part in Nuffield Southampton Theatres Laboratory Trainee Associate Programme visit www.nstheatres.co.uk/get-involved/artist-development/laboratory-associates.

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