5th wall

in practice

5th Wall In Practice is an artist support initiative designed for artists who want to learn how to produce a play of their choosing.

This program exists to support artists who are ready to take an active role in bringing theatrical work to life while receiving guidance, resources, and community along the way. Rather than functioning as a traditional residency or co production model, In Practice centers the artist’s vision while offering structure, mentorship, and practical tools to help turn an idea into a realized production.

At its core, 5th Wall In Practice is about learning by doing. Artists are supported through the real and often unseen work of producing, from early planning to rehearsal logistics to performance, with care and intention.

Frequently Asked

Questions

  • 5th Wall In Practice is a supported producing pathway for artists who want to self produce a theatrical work while learning the tools and processes behind the scenes.

    Participants bring a project they are passionate about. 5th Wall offers guidance, conversation, and resources to help shape that project into a realized production, while artists retain full creative ownership.

    This is not a class or workshop series.
    It is not a traditional residency or incubator.

    It is a collaborative process rooted in shared learning and trust.

  • Artists participating in 5th Wall In Practice may receive support in areas such as:

    • Production planning and timelines
    • Budgeting and financial planning
    • Marketing and audience engagement strategy
    • Ticketing and front of house systems
    • Design conversations and creative problem solving
    • Rehearsal process planning
    • Navigating logistics and production realities
    • Potential access to rehearsal space, as availability allows
    • Potential access to 5th Wall’s prop, costume, and set dressing stock

    Support is responsive and tailored to each project, meeting artists where they are and building on what they already bring.

  • • It is not a co production model
    • It does not take ownership of the work
    • It is not a one size fits all program

    Instead, it is a flexible framework that centers the artist while offering guidance and access.

  • Projects developed through 5th Wall In Practice are presented in association with 5th Wall Theatre and exist outside of the company’s MainStage season.

    Artists participating in the program serve as the primary producers of their projects and retain full artistic ownership and decision making authority. All creative choices, vision, and direction remain in the hands of the artist and their team.

    5th Wall’s role is to provide support, guidance, and access to resources when requested. This may include consultation, logistical support, and shared tools, but does not involve creative control or authorship over the work.

    As stated above, 5th Wall In Practice is distinct from the company’s MainStage programming and is designed to create additional pathways for artists to develop and present work in a supported environment.

    In Practice is built on trust, collaboration, and respect for each artist’s voice. Our goal is not to shape the work, but to support artists as they bring their vision to life on their own terms.

  • 5th Wall In Practice is designed for artists who:

    • Are ready to take on producing their own work
    • Want support navigating the practical realities of production
    • Value collaboration and transparency
    • Are interested in learning through experience
    • Want to grow their producing skills alongside their artistic practice

    Previous producing experience is not required.

  • Producing work can feel opaque or inaccessible, particularly for early career and independent artists. 5th Wall In Practice exists to demystify that process and to offer a supportive environment where artists can take creative risks and build sustainable practices.

    This initiative reflects 5th Wall Theatre’s commitment to artist centered work, shared learning, and building pathways that expand access to creative leadership.

  • Projects developed through 5th Wall In Practice are primarily funded by the lead producer, who is the artist or producing team applying to the program. Artists are responsible for budgeting, fundraising, and covering production expenses related to their project.

    5th Wall Theatre may contribute support where possible. This can include in kind resources, shared tools, guidance, or limited financial support depending on capacity and project needs. These contributions are not guaranteed and vary from project to project.

    The goal of In Practice is to support artists with knowledge, access, and resources while helping them build sustainable producing skills.

    Looking Ahead

    5th Wall Theatre is actively working toward securing grant funding and additional resources to expand and deepen the support offered through 5th Wall In Practice. Our hope is that, over time, this initiative will grow to include more financial assistance and expanded access for participating artists.

    As this program evolves, we are committed to building sustainable pathways that better support artist led work while remaining transparent about what is possible at each stage.

  • Artists interested in participating in 5th Wall In Practice can submit a request through our application: HERE.

    Submissions are reviewed by 5th Wall Theatre’s Artistic Director, who considers each project based on alignment, capacity, and available resources.

    Because this program is designed to offer meaningful, hands-on support, only a limited number of projects can be supported each year. Submitting a request does not guarantee selection.

    Artists seeking venue access without participation in 5th Wall In Practice are encouraged to complete our RENTAL REQUEST FORM, which is available through the same link.