About ThisGen.

ThisGen is a one of a kind launchpad for the next generation of WA’s cultural leaders.

Encounter will now be delivering this opportunity to artists based in Western Australia, in partnership with WhyNot Theatre (Canada). Our iteration of this program aims to be responsive to WA’s current social and cultural landscape, and will facilitate Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CaLD), and First Nations or Torres Strait Islander producers and directors, to propel their careers to the next stage. Meet this year’s fellows…

Encounter, since its inception, has been at the forefront of advocating for positive change and equity within the arts sector. Our mission extends beyond providing mere support; it involves cultivating a transformative future for leadership across various disciplines in the Australian theatre landscape. Launching this initiative in Western Australia represents a pivotal moment for underrepresented communities in our country’s arts and cultural sector; one that Encounter is proud to be a part of. 

If you have any questions about the program, please contact Tao at tao@encountertheatre.com. 

2024 Program.

Encounter will be selecting a small cohort of fellows to undertake ThisGen, which will involve an immersive program of paid training, hands-on residencies and labs, and peer-to-peer connection, under the mentorship of industry leading producers and directors. Applications are open to all WA-based early career producers and directors from CaLD, First Nation or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds. Regionally based artists encouraged to apply.

Why Now?

As leaders in Western Australia, Encounter understands the responsibility to revolutionise how the industry operates. The ThisGen Fellowship is not just about our desire for change; it is a necessary step for the sustained growth and vibrancy of the arts sector in our region. By actively participating in this initiative, we hope to connect communities globally, foster intercultural understanding, and contribute to a healthier, transparent, and accountable industry. This fellowship marks not only a beginning, but a vital turning point in the evolution of the arts landscape in Western Australia.

The urgency of this fellowship arises from the pressing need to address several critical issues within the current artistic landscape:

• Lack of Pathways for CaLD Artists 

• Systemic Changes and Collaboration 

• Mentorship and Development Gap 

• Mass Exodus of Talent and Infrastructure Gap 

Timeline