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Freelancers Make Theatre Work

@freelancersmake.bsky.social
2.1K followers 1.3K following 1.5K posts

We listen, support and advocate for ALL freelancers in the arts. An inclusive, independent community for the 200,000+ self-employed and freelance workers from all areas of arts. linktr.ee/FMTW #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork

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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 11h
"Culture shapes politics, not the other way around, and as the climate space becomes increasingly contested, the arts have a serious job to do in making a case that should be obvious" - Freelance theatre consultant and writer Amber Massie-Blomfield #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #ClimateChange
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 14h
'A proposed £1bn cut to the government’s arts and culture budget by the Conservative Party would leave theatres and art galleries “at risk in every part of the country”, Campaign for the Arts has warned.' Read more in The Stage here: buff.ly/0mgBfV5 #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 15h
"Working conditions in the performing arts are not sustainable. It’s now more difficult than five years ago to sustain a living wage”. - Professor Almuth McDowall from Birkbeck’s Department of Organizational Psychology
"Working conditions in the performing arts are not sustainable. It’s now more difficult than five years ago to sustain a living wage. Conditions have become more insecure and precarious, and people’s family planning choices are affected. If we want work on the stage to reflect UK society, then urgent action is required from government, policy makers and employers”. - Professor Almuth McDowall from Birkbeck’s Department of Organizational Psychology
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
Playwrights working under the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain’s collective agreement with UK Theatre will see an uplift of 3.5% to their minimum fees: buff.ly/1wIiLMJ #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Playwrights score 3.5% increase to minimum fees
Playwrights working under the Writers' Guild of Great Britain's collective agreement with UK Theatre will see an uplift of 3.5% to their minimum fees
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
Words matter - especially in times of conflict. Our Language & Glossary page offers definitions and guidance for more thoughtful, respectful conversations. 🔗 freelancersmaketheatrework.com/globalconfli... #LanguageMatters #ConflictGlossary #FreelancersSupportFreelancers
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
Our rebuilt anti-racism hub brings together support and reporting routes, practical working guidance, community networks, tools, learning and historical resources. Explore the hub: buff.ly/c40XTzM #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #antiracism
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 10/10/2026
Stage managers are often expected to support everyone else, without extra pay, training or support themselves. We all have a part in respecting their boundaries and making sure they have somewhere to turn too. Let’s celebrate AND support them, every day. #InternationalStageManagementDay
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
"You know, it breaks my heart that the importance of the arts really isn't seen. The current powers that be are only intent on making sure that people do maths and science right up until their A-levels, which is actually ridiculous, because people's minds just don't work that way." - Jenny Seagrove.
"You know, it breaks my heart that the importance of the arts really isn't seen. The current powers that be are only intent on making sure that people do maths and science right up until their A-levels, which is actually ridiculous, because people's minds just don't work that way." - The quote is credited to Actor, Jenny Seagrove.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 09/10/2026
'Losing theatres such as the Gate should be a wake-up call for our industry's future' - Anthony Simpson-Pike, artistic director of Theatre503, in this week's The Stage. 👉 buff.ly/qLnCtB1 #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Fair pay for freelance creatives on benefits: help shape what needs to change. Arts & Homelessness International hosts a free, participatory theatre event. 22 October, 1–4pm Brady Arts and Community Centre, London buff.ly/2ehPB9d
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
The in-person sessions are fully wheelchair accessible, and the online sessions will have captioning. Discussion topics will be sent in advance, and you can come and go as needed. Please tell us about any other access needs when booking. For questions, contact hello@freelancersmaketheatrework.com.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
In person at the Barbican Thursday 22 October 11am to 1.30pm or 2.30pm to 5pm Book an in-person session: buff.ly/5V388sy Online Tuesday 10 November, 1pm to 2.15pm Monday 16 November, 6pm to 7.15pm Book an online session: buff.ly/WJRqVvO
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Led by CN Lester, the sessions will provide space to talk with others about the impact on your work and help shape what we ask of colleagues, arts organisations and funding bodies. Anonymised material from the discussions will inform an urgent Call to Action for the industry.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
‘Supporting trans freelancers in the wake of the EHRC Code of Practice’ offers four sessions, in person and online. You only need to attend one. These sessions are for trans freelancers, including non-binary and agender people, across all creative industries and roles.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
We’re working with Dr CN Lester (@cnlester.bsky.social) to bring trans freelancers together for confidential, supportive conversations about the impact of the EHRC Code of Practice and what support is needed across the creative industries.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Playwrights working under the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain’s collective agreement with UK Theatre will see an uplift of 3.5% to their minimum fees: buff.ly/1wIiLMJ #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
buff.ly
Playwrights score 3.5% increase to minimum fees
Playwrights working under the Writers' Guild of Great Britain's collective agreement with UK Theatre will see an uplift of 3.5% to their minimum fees
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
“Getting paid should not be a daily battle. And yes, this includes every time you want that 'informal chat' to know our thoughts too.” - Jayne Lawless, Artist. #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #TheArts #Culture #ArtsAndCulture
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 08/10/2026
Want the facts? Our Climate Studies section brings together research, reports, and evidence that shows why the arts must act - and what’s already being done. Get informed. Get inspired. 🔗 freelancersmaketheatrework.com/climatecrisis/climatestudies #ClimateResearch #ArtsAndClimate
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Arts funding must reach the people making the work. Culture Counts warns that recent increases in Scotland are not being felt by freelancers. Fair pay and accessible project funding must be priorities. buff.ly/1KZdlCM #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Menopause and Perimenopause Hub for arts freelancers. Practical support, self-advocacy tips, rights signposting, inclusive resources, guidance for organisations, and more. You are not alone. Explore the hub: freelancersmaketheatrework.com/menopause/ #MenopauseSupport
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
Freelance work starts before someone enters the room. Before saying yes, ask about the fee, payment terms, expenses, hours, access, safety, insurance and cancellations. Use the Freelancing 101 checklist: buff.ly/PoOoDDp #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
NEW FREE ONLINE WORKSHOP Making Tax Digital for Theatre Freelancers. An overview of Making Tax Digital for Live Performing Arts Freelancers Accounting4Actors’ Jon Harris provides an easy guide to the new Making Tax Digital system Book here: buff.ly/gUUZOtV #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
Arts freelancers often find themselves speaking out or caught up in global events - but how do we stay protected? Explore campaigns & legal support resources for those navigating activism, advocacy, or simply trying to stay safe. 🔗 buff.ly/kK7KZgC
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 06/10/2026
💡 Need EU work advice? Our Working in Europe guide covers visas, taxes, and more. Visit: freelancersmaketheatrework.com/working-in-europe. #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
freelancersmaketheatrework.com
Working In Europe - Freelancers make theatre work
The FMTW Working in Europe Hub where you will find recent news, updates, advice, support, lobbying information and more.
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
Want to help keep freelancers on the agenda in 2026? Lobby your MP. It really does make a difference. Our latest templates are available to download here alongside a link to help you find your local MP. freelancersmaketheatrework.com/mps-letter/ #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
The show must go on. But at what cost? And to who? “...the narrative within the industry is that we should be grateful to have a job and shouldn’t complain or fight for change.” #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 04/10/2026
New to Self Assessment? Some new or returning users who need to file for 2025/26 must tell HMRC by 5 October. Check whether it applies: buff.ly/UlZtRIy Freelancing 101: buff.ly/QaxSw9I #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #SelfAssessment
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 03/10/2026
'The Stage Debut Awards winners call for more support for freelancers' buff.ly/YB5AzU9 #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #TheStageDebutAwards #LazyViolet
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 03/10/2026
Fair pay for freelance creatives on benefits: help shape what needs to change. Arts & Homelessness International hosts a free, participatory theatre event. 22 October, 1–4pm Brady Arts and Community Centre, London buff.ly/2ehPB9d
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
"We are losing artists from poorer backgrounds. So who is telling their stories? Why are we allowing class to stifle artistic expression? Art is not a luxury. Let people in." - Shaparak Khorsandi, Comedian. FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #Freelancers #Culture #Arts #ArtsAndCulture
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Arts funding must reach the people making the work. Culture Counts warns that recent increases in Scotland are not being felt by freelancers. Fair pay and accessible project funding must be priorities. buff.ly/1KZdlCM #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
We advocate hard for our industry but we're not the only ones. Take a look at some of these amazing organisations doing fantastic work for inclusivity, diversity, fair pay and so much more... freelancersmaketheatrework.com/advocating-b... #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
This #BlackHistoryMonth, we’re honouring the communities that have shaped British theatre by highlighting the Black Plays Archive. Explore first professional UK productions from 1930 to today, alongside casts, production teams, play extracts and interviews: buff.ly/udhfhW6
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Freelancing 101 is now live. Practical guidance and tools for UK freelancers across theatre and live performance, covering money, contracts, finding work, rights, wellbeing and more. Start with the question you need help with today: buff.ly/QaxSw9I
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Freelancing 101 - Freelancers make theatre work
freelancing 101
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Want to know about the latest industry news affecting you? Head to the ‘In the News’ section on the #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork website! We share daily updates with stories & insights that matter to arts freelancers. 🔗 freelancersmaketheatrework.com/in-the-news/ #Theatre #UKTheatre #UKArts
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Our LGBTQIA+ hub brings together advice, support, campaigning information and resources for freelancers and allies. buff.ly/qIIWzDR
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
'The Stage Debut Awards winners call for more support for freelancers' buff.ly/YB5AzU9 #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #TheStageDebutAwards #LazyViolet
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Want to directly support the work #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork do as we continue to lobby, advocate and fight for freelance voices in the UK arts sector? freelancersmaketheatrework.com/supportfmtw/ #SaveTheArts
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Missed one of our amazing newsletters? Fear not! Here they all are... freelancersmaketheatrework.com/newsletter/ Why not sign up too? 😉 #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Coming up next week: a free online Stress & Burnout Workshop with BAPAM. Recognise the signs and risks, explore practical strategies and learn when and where to get help. 29 September, 1pm to 2.15pm. buff.ly/Mw4zM0b
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
#FreelancersMakeTheatreWork runs on volunteer power, but we still have essential costs-web hosting, Zoom, and part-time freelance coordinators. Every contribution helps us support the freelance theatre community. 💛 Find out how to help: freelancersmaketheatrework.com/supportfmtw/
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
The number of people from backgrounds underrepresented in the creative industries that don't apply for jobs because of financial constraints is increasing. #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #WeAreCreative #Freelancers #Freelancer #Culture #Arts #ArtsAndCulture
“Financial barriers exclude those from historically minoritised communities from accessing roles and progressing in the creative industries.” - Creative Access
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Last year, IPC’s Impact of Injury report started a vital conversation. Let’s keep it going.The IOI26 survey is 100% anonymous, and will help: • Prevent avoidable injuries • Reflect real safety needs • Set better standardsWhether on stage, screen or behind the scenes - take it today: buff.ly/qL7OpGz
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Interested in costume design? Join David Wolfe (Wolfie) online for a Film London conversation about his career, craft, creative process and the realities of working in the industry. Wed 30 Sept, 12pm to 1pm Zoom Register: buff.ly/60kj4oS
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
NEW FREE ONLINE WORKSHOP Making Tax Digital for Theatre Freelancers. An overview of Making Tax Digital for Live Performing Arts Freelancers Accounting4Actors’ Jon Harris provides an easy guide to the new Making Tax Digital system Book here: buff.ly/gUUZOtV #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
“The hidden costs that disabled theatremakers are being forced to swallow and the barriers to even just being part of a wider team are stopping us from producing and participating in work.” - Actor, Mark Beer. www.thestage.co.uk/opinion/hidd... #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork #ArtsAccess
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Freelancing 101 is now live. Practical guidance and quick tools for freelancers across theatre and live performance, covering money, contracts, rights, insurance, wellbeing and more. buff.ly/QaxSw9I #Freelancing101
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
FMTW are partnering with Theatre Green Book to offer some FREE training for Arts Freelancers. If you were to be offered a training/information session on sustainable working in theatre and the Theatre Green Book, what would you find useful to be included? Let us know... buff.ly/M1HkQ7V
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
'Theatres make living somewhere brighter, warmer and more meaningful.' -Lyn Gardner on why and how local theatres build stronger communities: www.thestage.co.uk/opinion/loca... #FreelancersMakeTheatreWork
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Freelancers Make Theatre Work @freelancersmake.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Coming up next week: a free online Stress & Burnout Workshop with BAPAM. Recognise the signs and risks, explore practical strategies and learn when and where to get help. 29 September, 1pm to 2.15pm. buff.ly/Mw4zM0b
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