The Shadow Program
The Shadow Program is an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience for emerging theatre-makers, run alongside our 2025 production of Peter/Wendy. The program is divided into two streams:
- Work Experience – a formal work experience program for high school students in Years 10-12
- Industry Observation – for emerging theatre practitioners
Just like Peter Pan’s shadow, you will closely follow the show every step of the way. You’ll observe and participate in rehearsals, make connections, ask questions, receive mentoring and pathway planning. This is your exclusive, all-access backstage pass to the creation of a professional theatre production.
As a company, we are passionate about nurturing emerging artists and creating entry points into the industry that are supportive, inclusive, and empowering. This program reflects our fierce commitment to artist development, creating spaces where emerging creatives are mentored, supported and challenged.
Whether you’re a student curious about the industry or an early-career artist ready to take the next step, consider this your formal invitation to Neverland.
Entry to the Shadow Program is via application. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, Culturally and/or Linguistically Diverse, d/Deaf or hard of hearing, Disabled, Neurodiverse, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTQI+) artists are encouraged. Please submit your application below.
Work Experience
Who is this for?
Students in Years 10-12 who are curious about the performing arts industry, who might be considering tertiary study or a career in the arts.
When is it?
The equivalent of five full days, made up of rehearsals, production and technical meetings, and performances. Exact days and times are arranged in consultation with participants and the existing production schedule.
What is involved?
You’ll rotate across multiple departments to develop a broad understanding of the full production process, informed by your selected areas of interest (such as acting, directing, design, or stage management). You’ll observe professional-standard rehearsal rooms, engage in production tasks, and see what it means to work collaboratively on a live performance.
Industry Observation
Who is this for?
Emerging theatre practitioners (ages 16+) who are pursuing or planning a professional career in the performing arts. Ideal for early-career artists, recent graduates, and those currently training in directing, design, technical theatre, or stage management.
Participants should already have some theatre experience, and be looking to deepen their skills through focused, mentored observation.
When is it?
1-3 rehearsals, production meetings or performances tailored to your chosen area/s of interest. Exact days and times are arranged in consultation with participants and the existing production schedule.
2 one-on-one meetings with your mentor to reflect, ask questions, and discuss pathways in the industry.
What is involved?
You’ll be assigned a mentor based on your chosen area/s of interest (including directing, movement direction, stage management, lighting design, sound design, and costume design). You and your mentor will meet twice: once at the start of the program to identify your goals and how to get the best experience, and then at the end to solidify your learning and plan potential next steps.
Throughout the process, you will shadow your mentor as they work, observing rehearsals, production meetings, technical runs, and performances.
FAQs
Work Experience: Nope! Just curiosity and commitment. You do need to be able to demonstrate an interest in theatre, however.
Industry Observation: Yes, you should have some theatre experience already. This can be from school productions, independent creative projections or amateur theatre.
We’re aiming to keep the program small and focused so that every participant receives meaningful mentorship and support. Final numbers will depend on the availability of applicants, their areas of interest, and the availability of our team. different departments.
Our team will consider all applicants against the following questions:
- How will this program benefit the artist? Will this program have a significant positive impact on the artist’s development and growth? Does our program align with their goals?
- How will the artist benefit the production? Will the artist bring a positive, open and collaborative approach to the rehearsal room? Are they professional and committed?
- How does this artist fit within the production? Does their availability align with rehearsal schedules? Do we have capacity within their area of interest?
No, the program is free to access. This program is unpaid and educational in nature.
Yes and no. We will preference applicants who are based in Canberra and the surrounding regions, as we are specifically focused on growing the local industry.
You are welcome to apply if you are based outside Canberra, but you will need to arrange your own travel and accommodation, and ensure you can commit to all arranged dates.
You’ll be able to nominate up to three areas of interest in your application form. We’ll do our best to match you with a relevant mentor, but placements depend on availability and production needs.
Yes! Our Work Experience stream meets most school work experience requirements. We will provide official documentation and paperwork, and can also liaise with your school to coordinate specific dates.
This depends on your stream and your area of interest.